Vinod Bhat
New Delhi: Indian Railways has achieved an all-time record in coal loading, registering a 22.5% growth in October 2026 up to 18th October compared with the corresponding period last year. Coal loading during this period increased by 87 rakes per day over October 2025, reflecting the continued efforts to ensure reliable coal supplies to thermal power plants across the country.
During the first half (H1) of FY 2026-27, Indian Railways dispatched an average of 430 coal rakes per day to thermal power plants, registering a 7.1% increase over the corresponding period last year. The momentum continued in September 2026, when coal rake dispatches increased by 14% per day compared with September 2025.
The sustained pace of coal transportation comes amid rising energy consumption and increased demand for coal-based power generation due to higher industrial production and deficient rainfall in some parts of the country.
Consistent coal evacuation has helped maintain steady coal stocks at thermal power plants, supporting reliable power generation across the country. Indian Railways is working in close coordination with the Ministry of Coal to ensure efficient coal evacuation. It is also coordinating with the Ministry of Power to sustain coal transportation and supply, helping maintain adequate coal stocks at thermal power plants and meet the country’s energy requirements.
