Raipur (thestates.news) | South East Central Railway (SECR) has added yet another golden chapter to the history of Indian Railways. In the financial year 2025-26, SECR has achieved the fastest-ever “century” of freight loading by transporting 100 million tonnes in just 144 days. Previously, this milestone was achieved in 188 days in 2021-22, 175 days in 2022-23, 164 days in 2023-24, and 151 days in 2024-25.
This feat was accomplished while ensuring uninterrupted supply of coal to power plants, raw materials to steel industries, and goods to various factories across the country. Compared to the same period last year, SECR recorded a growth of 4.57 million tonnes (4.79%) in freight loading.
As of August 22, 2025, SECR stands as the second-highest originating freight loader in Indian Railways, contributing 15.83% to the total freight traffic.
Significant Growth Across Sectors
Compared to last year’s figures for the same period, SECR registered growth of 5.98% in coal, 12.10% in raw material for steel plants, 7.56% in pig iron and finished steel, 1.13% in cement, 4.78% in food grains, and 23.17% in petroleum products. Notably, freight loading of bottled oxygen gas (BOG) rose by 17.58%.
Divisional Performance
Within SECR, Bilaspur Division posted 4.58% growth, Nagpur Division 19.23%, and Raipur Division 0.24%. Particularly, Bilaspur Division loaded 74.25 million tonnes, securing the top spot among all divisions of Indian Railways.
Revenue Peaks as Well
Alongside freight performance, SECR also crossed a major revenue milestone by earning ₹10,000 crore in freight revenue within just 119 days, on July 28, 2025. This achievement came seven days earlier than last year.
Balanced Operations and Passenger Services
SECR accomplished this record while simultaneously maintaining smooth passenger services. Major infrastructure works such as doubling of lines, construction of third/fourth lines, electrification, and yard remodeling played a pivotal role in enhancing freight and passenger handling capacity.
To prioritize passenger convenience, SECR has been operating special trains during festivals and peak seasons. Recently, special trains were run for Rath Yatra, Shravan month, and Raksha Bandhan. In the coming weeks, Teej Specials and Durga Puja Specials will also be operated to ensure hassle-free and comfortable travel for passengers.
Continuous Improvement in Services
By focusing on accessible services, faster decision-making, competitive freight rates, and improved service quality, SECR has achieved this historic milestone. Railway authorities affirmed that SECR will continue its commitment to passenger convenience, meeting the nation’s industrial requirements, and contributing significantly to Indian Railways’ revenue in the future as well.
