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Indian Railways Expands Passenger Services as August Freight Loading Rises

Indian Railways carried more people and goods in August 2026 than in the same month last year.

Fourteen Amrit Bharat services became regular trains, bringing the total number to 86.

Five new cargo terminals were also opened to help businesses move goods by rail.

Freight loading rose to 137.9 million tonnes.

Passenger numbers increased to 67.27 crore.

Suburban train use grew especially quickly.

Railways added special trains for people travelling during Rakshabandhan.

There were 144 special-train trips from August 25 to 31.

These changes were intended to provide more travel capacity and improve goods transportation.

Key facts

Amrit Bharat services: 14 services were regularised in August, taking the total to 86.
Freight loading: 137.9 million tonnes in August 2026, up 5.4% from 130.9 million tonnes in August 2025.
Freight revenue: Revenue increased 6.27% year-on-year in August.
Cargo terminals: Five new Gati Shakti Cargo Terminals were commissioned, bringing the operational total to 149 as of August 31, 2026.
Passenger traffic: Passenger traffic reached 67.27 crore, compared with 64.43 crore in August 2025.
Suburban traffic: Suburban passenger traffic rose to 38.01 crore from 34.89 crore, an increase of 9.02%.
Festival trains: There were 144 Rakshabandhan Special train trips from August 25 to 31, compared with 48 trips during August 8 to 14, 2025.

financialexpress.com · 1 hr ago