SWR records strong freight loading, revenue growth

Hubballi: South Western Railway (SWR) recorded an originating freight loading of 4.4 million tonnes (MT) in May 2026, compared to 4.2 MT in May 2025, registering a growth of 4.3%. This achievement is the highest ever freight loading for May, surpassing the previous record of 4.3 MT set in May 2008. During the month, an average of 2,275 wagons per day were loaded, as against 2,193 wagons per day in the corresponding period last year, reflecting a growth of 3.7%.

Commodity-wise, SWR handled 1.8 million tonnes of iron ore, 0.9 million tonnes of steel, and 0.1 million tonnes of RMSP during May 2026. Coal loading stood at 0.9 million tonnes, registering a significant growth of 23.3% compared to 0.8 million tonnes in May 2025.

SWR recorded a stable financial performance in May 2026, with gross earnings amounting to Rs 770.7 crore. Passenger earnings continued to be a major contributor, reaching Rs 302.3 crore, which reflects a strong 21.4% growth over the previous year. The number of passengers carried rose to 16.4 million, registering a 6.7% increase compared to last year and surpassing the target by 8.1%, indicating sustained demand for passenger services.

Freight earnings during the month stood at Rs 425.7 crore, while other coaching earnings were Rs 26.1 crore. Parcel revenue amounted to Rs 13.8 crore, and sundry earnings were Rs 16.6 crore. Ticket checking earnings were recorded at Rs 5.5 crore, and commercial sundry revenue stood at Rs 5.7 crore.

For the financial year up to May 2026, cumulative earnings also showed encouraging progress. Passenger revenue increased to Rs 609.7 crore, marking a growth of 16.2% over the corresponding period last year. Freight revenue reached Rs 782.9 crore, while other coaching revenue stood at Rs 54.8 crore and sundry revenue at Rs 34.1 crore. The total gross revenue for the period aggregated to Rs 1,481.5 crore, reflecting an overall improvement in earnings performance.