India ranks second in rail cargo and becomes the world’s largest locomotive maker

As part of India’s mission to build a Viksit Bharat by 2047, Indian Railways is undergoing a remarkable transformation, aligning its growth with global trends in supply chain management freight forwarding. From modernizing stations and introducing new trains to expanding rail lines and infrastructure, the national transporter is laying the groundwork for a stronger logistics ecosystem.

A significant boost comes from India’s emergence as the world's largest locomotive manufacturer, having produced 1,600 locomotives last year surpassing the combined output of the US, Europe, and Japan. Railway Minister Ashwini Vishnaw made the announcement during a CII event on May 30, highlighting that the country is not only scaling capacity but also integrating modern technologies into its rolling stock.

India has also climbed to the second position globally in railway cargo-carrying capacity, achieving 1,612 million tonnes (MT). This shift supports the freight handling process at Indian ports by easing road congestion and cutting CO₂ emissions by 95%. The ongoing development of Dedicated Freight Corridors (DFCs) is a game-changer for freight systems supply chain solutions, enabling seamless cargo movement without disrupting passenger trains.

These enhancements offer a robust backbone for sectors like ocean freight forwarding and open new opportunities for ocean freight forwarding companies seeking reliable land transport integration. Indian Railways is also replacing all old coaches with new ones within the next three years having already built over 41,000 LHB coaches in the last decade ensuring safety and speed in the freight forwarding sector.

By fortifying its capabilities, Indian Railways is poised to become a key pillar in supply chain and freight forwarding, both domestically and globally.