Indian railways set to achieve record 1.6 billion tonnes of freight loading in FY 2024-2025
With a 29 per cent increase in volumes and improved operational efficiency, India strengthens its position as the world's third-largest freight rail network
Indian railways is expected to cross a historic milestone of 1.6 billion tonnes in freight loading during the 2024-2025 fiscal year, cementing its position as the world’s third-largest freight rail network. Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw shared this projection, noting that freight volumes have grown by 29 per cent: from 1,233 million tonnes in 2020-2021 to 1,591 million tonnes during 2023-2024.
As reported by IANS, a partner of TV BRICS, in 2023-2024, the railways recorded earnings of US$32 billion, and revenue expenditure was US$30 billion. The net revenue has improved to US$381 million in 2023-2024.
Key expenditures included staff salaries, pensions, and energy costs. To boost freight traffic, the government has promoted private investment in modern cargo terminals and introduced specialised waggons for commodities like cement, oil, and steel.
Additionally, operational efficiency has improved, with electrification saving over 4,700 crore rupees in diesel costs last fiscal year. Track upgrades have also expanded its speed potential to 80,000 km/h. These efforts aim to strengthen the railways' role in India’s logistics sector while ensuring sustainable growth.
Photo: iStock
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