Indian Railways has become the world’s second-largest freight carrier, driven by sustained capacity expansion and network modernisation. Freight volumes increased from 1,233 million tonnes in 2020–21 to a projected 1,617 million tonnes in 2024–25.

This growth has been achieved despite rising operational costs, with freight tariffs unchanged since 2018 and only marginal passenger fare hikes after five years. Major investments in new lines, track doubling, and corridor upgrades have improved capacity and turnaround times.

Nearly 99.1% of the Broad Gauge network is now electrified. The addition of two lakh wagons and over 10,000 locomotives has further strengthened freight-handling capability.