In a major boost to India’s energy supply network, Indian Railways has achieved an all-time record in coal loading, logging a remarkable 22.5% growth during the first 18 days of October 2026 compared to the same period last year.
To meet the rising power demands across the country, Indian Railways dispatched an additional 87 coal rakes per day over the October 2025 performance. This operational breakthrough highlights the national transporter’s sustained commitment to keeping thermal power stations adequately supplied.
The strong performance in October builds upon a robust foundation established earlier in the fiscal year. During the first half (H1) of FY 2026-27, Indian Railways dispatched an average of 430 coal rakes daily to thermal power plants—marking a 7.1% increase over the corresponding period last year. This surge gathered further momentum in September 2026, which recorded a 14% daily increase in coal rake dispatches year-on-year.
The accelerated pace of coal transportation comes at a critical juncture. Rising industrial output and localized rainfall deficits have combined to sharply increase electricity consumption and dependence on coal-based power generation.
By maintaining high freight evacuation rates, Indian Railways has ensured stable coal inventory levels at thermal power stations nationwide, mitigating the risk of power outages.
