Indian Railways surpasses last year's records for same month

GUWAHATI: In a remarkable turnaround, the Indian Railways has earned more revenue in September as compared to last year in spite of the COVID-related challenges. In September 2020, the Railways earned Rs. 9,896.86 crores from freight loading which is also Rs. 1,180.57 crores higher compared to last year's earnings for the same period (Rs. 8,716.29 crores). The increase in freight revenue is 13.54%.

Trends in freight traffic reflect the broad trends of economic activities that turn around well. On mission mode, the Railways achieved a significant milestone in pulling freight traffic ahead. The Railways freight-loading and freight revenue in September 2020, surpasses last year's loading and revenue for the same month. In September 2020, the Railways freight loading was 102.12 million tonnes, which is 13.59 million tonnes higher compared to last year's freight loading for the same month (88.53 million tonnes). The increase in freight loading is 15.35%.

In September 2020, the Railways loading was 102.12 million tonnes which include 42.89 million tonnes of coal, 13.53 million tonnes of iron ore, 6.3 million tonnes of food grains, 5.34 million tonnes of fertilizers, 6.05 million tonnes of cement (excluding clinker), 3.85 million tonnes of clinker, and 3.52 million tonnes of mineral oil. Improvements in freight movements will be institutionalized and incorporated in the upcoming zero-based timetable. A number of concessions and discounts are also being given in the Railways to make freight movement via trians very attractive. COVID-19 has been used by the Railways as an opportunity to improve the all-round efficiencies and performances, stated a release.