Indian Railways Achieves Historic Milestone in Freight Operations

New Delhi, January 14: Indian Railways has achieved a significant milestone in freight transportation, setting a new operational record through its Dedicated Freight Corridor (DFC) network. By handling an unprecedented number of freight train interchanges in a single day, the railways have further strengthened India’s logistics and supply chain infrastructure.

On January 5, 2026, the Dedicated Freight Corridor Corporation of India Limited (DFCCIL) successfully managed the interchange of 892 freight trains between the DFC network and five zonal railways. This marked the highest-ever single-day interchange since the commissioning of the freight corridors, surpassing the earlier record achieved just a day earlier.

Officials said the achievement highlights the growing capacity and efficiency of the DFC system, which is designed to move goods faster, more reliably and at lower costs. Improved freight handling has also eased pressure on conventional railway lines, enabling smoother passenger train operations and improving punctuality.

The record performance was made possible through precise traffic planning, effective speed regulation, safe headway management and close coordination among operational units. Advanced signalling systems, real-time traffic monitoring, digital control rooms and automated scheduling tools played a key role in ensuring uninterrupted and safe train movements across heavily loaded sections.

High-capacity locomotives hauling longer and heavier freight trains at higher average speeds significantly contributed to the achievement. Strong coordination among loco pilots, assistant loco pilots and train managers ensured disciplined and alert operations throughout the day. Additionally, efficient yard management and strengthened feeder routes helped minimise detention time, allowing quicker entry and exit of trains.

Railway officials said the improved freight flow is directly benefiting industries by ensuring faster delivery of commodities such as coal, cement, containers and agricultural produce, while also lowering logistics costs. The enhanced efficiency is contributing to economic growth and ensuring timely availability of essential goods for consumers.

The consistent rise in high-volume interchange days on the DFC network reflects a sustained trend of high-density freight movement and improved operational capability. With modern infrastructure and digital oversight, Indian Railways is balancing large-scale passenger services with expanding freight demands.

The latest milestone reinforces Indian Railways’ role as a backbone of the national logistics ecosystem, supporting economic development through faster, safer and more predictable freight transportation.