Indian Railways has witnessed a substantial rise in revenue from freight and passenger operations over the past four years. Freight revenue surged by ₹54,805 crore, increasing from ₹1.13 lakh crore in 2019-20 to ₹1.68 lakh crore in 2023-24. Similarly, passenger revenue grew by ₹20,024 crore, rising from ₹50,669 crore in 2019-20 to ₹70,693 crore in 2023-24.

Over the last five years, revenue trends in freight and passenger operations indicate steady growth, with notable fluctuations during the COVID-19 period. The revenue from flexi fare, tatkal, and premium tatkal bookings accounted for approximately 5.7% of the total earnings from passenger services. However, data on refunds due to ticket cancellations is not maintained separately.

As of April 1, 2024, Indian Railways operates around 79,000 coaches, providing approximately 65 lakh seats for passengers. Of these, nearly 56,000 coaches belong to the general and non-AC sleeper categories, accommodating around 51 lakh seats, while about 23,000 AC coaches offer 14 lakh seats.

Between 2019-20 and 2023-24, non-AC coaches accounted for nearly 82% of total available seats, contributing approximately 53% to passenger revenue. Meanwhile, AC coaches, with an 18% share of total seats, contributed around 47% of passenger earnings.

This data was shared by Union Minister of Railways, Information & Broadcasting, and Electronics & Information Technology, Shri Ashwini Vaishnaw, in a written reply to the Rajya Sabha.

Source/PIB