New Delhi: Indian Railways has recorded its highest-ever coal loading, registering 22.5% growth between October 1 and 18, 2026, compared with the corresponding period last year. Coal dispatches increased by 87 rakes per day, reflecting efforts to ensure uninterrupted fuel supplies to thermal power plants.
During the first half of FY2026-27, Indian Railways dispatched an average of 430 coal rakes daily to thermal power plants, marking a 7.1% increase over the same period last year. The growth momentum continued in September, when daily coal rake dispatches rose by 14% year-on-year.
The increase in coal transportation comes amid rising energy consumption and higher demand for coal-based electricity, driven by industrial activity and deficient rainfall in some parts of the country.
Consistent coal evacuation has helped maintain stable coal stocks at thermal power plants, supporting reliable electricity generation across the country.
Indian Railways is coordinating closely with the Ministries of Coal and Power to improve coal transportation, ensure efficient evacuation and maintain adequate stocks at power plants.
