The Indian Railways is set to surpass its revenue target of Rs 1.5 lakh crore, propelled by a recent achievement of earning Rs 1 lakh crore from freight. While the overall revenues have grown by 6.5 percent, slightly below the 9 percent annual target for 2023-24, railway officials express optimism.
Economic activity is anticipated to rise post-monsoon, driving increased goods loading. Passenger revenue, totaling Rs 43,101 crore, reflects a 7 percent boost from reserved passengers, driven by trains like Vande Bharat. Despite a 4.7 percent decrease in passengers, revenue per passenger has increased.
Unreserved category earnings have grown by 3.8 percent, reaching Rs 11,326 crore, with a 12 percent rise in passengers. Freight loading, up by 3.7 percent to 940 million tonnes, contributes to the positive outlook, particularly in coal with a 5.5 percent increase to 463 million tonnes, generating nearly Rs 51,000 crore. Railway authorities remain confident of meeting the annual revenue target with sustained goods loading growth and a positive economic landscape.
