Khurda Road Division Sets National Record in Freight Handling
ECoR division becomes the fastest in India to handle 200 million tonnes of freight, achieving the milestone in just 235 days.
Bhubaneswar: The Khurda Road Division of East Coast Railway (ECoR) has achieved a remarkable operational milestone, becoming the fastest division in Indian Railways to handle 200 Million Tonnes (MT) of freight traffic in the ongoing financial year. The target, accomplished by 21 November 2025, was reached in only 235 days, underscoring the division’s expanding freight-handling strength and consistent operational efficiency.
According to ECoR, the division’s freight achievement comprises 110 MT of loading—dominated by commodities such as coal, minerals, and steel—and 90 MT of unloading, ensuring smooth distribution and uninterrupted freight movement across the region. This balance between loading and unloading highlights Khurda Road’s critical role in maintaining robust supply chains for industries, power plants, and ports that depend heavily on railway logistics.
Railway officials attribute this success to a mix of improved operational systems, better rake mobility, and strong coordination with industrial stakeholders. The division has been continuously working on enhancing turnaround times, optimising asset utilisation, and strengthening its freight network. These measures have enabled the division to handle a significantly higher volume of cargo without compromising on safety or efficiency.
The milestone also reflects a broader national trend in which industries are increasingly opting for rail transport due to its safety, reliability, and cost-effectiveness. Rail-based logistics have gained momentum with steady investments in infrastructure, capacity expansion, and modern operational practices. In the Khurda Road Division, these efforts have included track upgrades, yard modernisation, and advanced monitoring mechanisms for freight operations.
With several major industrial zones—along with ports like Paradip and power-generating units—depending largely on the division for cargo movement, Khurda Road has emerged as a strategic freight corridor in eastern India. Its performance plays a vital role not only in supporting Odisha’s industrial ecosystem but also in strengthening national supply chains.
East Coast Railway has reaffirmed its commitment to further improving infrastructure, enhancing freight capacity, and implementing reforms that support rising freight demand. With India’s growing emphasis on efficient logistics and sustainable economic growth, the Khurda Road Division’s achievement is expected to serve as a benchmark for other railway divisions across the country.
