Indian Railways has posted a record high in coal loading, demonstrating a 22.5% expansion in October 2026 through October 18th, relative to the year-prior period. Coal loading during this timeframe rose by 87 rakes daily compared to October 2025. For the first half (H1) of FY 2026-27, Indian Railways delivered an average of 430 coal rakes per day to thermal power plants, which is a 7.1% increase year-over-year. The upward trend persisted in September 2026, with coal rake dispatches climbing by 14% daily when compared to September 2025. This consistent level of coal transportation occurs alongside elevated energy consumption and augmented demand for coal-fired power generation, driven by greater industrial output and inadequate rainfall in certain regions.