New Delhi: Indian Railways set a DFC freight record by interchanging 892 freight trains in a single day, marking the highest-ever operational performance on the Dedicated Freight Corridor network.
According to an official statement, the Dedicated Freight Corridor Corporation of India Limited achieved the milestone on January 5, 2026. The record involved freight train interchanges between the DFC network and five Indian Railways zones.
The previous highest interchange stood at 865 trains, recorded on January 4, 2026. Officials said the new DFC freight record highlighted the network’s growing capacity and operational strength.
Indian Railways said the improved freight movement reduced congestion on conventional rail lines. This helped ensure timely and comfortable passenger train services while lowering transit time and logistics costs for goods.
The record performance also supported faster delivery of essential commodities. Officials said it benefited industries and the common consumer by strengthening supply chains.
DFC freight record driven by technology and coordination
DFCCIL said effective speed regulation and safe headway management enabled smooth operations on heavily loaded sections. Close coordination between adjoining stations helped trains pass through stations with minimal stoppage.
The corporation credited modern scheduling tools and real-time traffic monitoring for the achievement. Automated signalling systems and digital control rooms supported uninterrupted and fuel-efficient operations.
Central Control supervised network-level planning using inputs from operational control centres and zonal offices. Officials said this ensured seamless execution across the corridor.
High-power locomotives hauled longer and heavier trains at higher average speeds. Coordination among loco pilots, assistant loco pilots, and train managers ensured disciplined and safe operations.
Strengthened feeder routes and efficient yard management reduced detention time. This allowed faster entry and exit of trains and timely evacuation of freight.
Indian Railways said the DFC freight record reflected a broader transformation in the logistics ecosystem. The network now enables faster movement of coal, cement, containers, and agricultural produce.
Other recent high-volume interchange days included 846 trains on March 30, 2025, and 830 trains on September 14, 2025. Officials said the trend showed sustained high-density freight operations.
Indian Railways said it remained equally focused on passenger and freight services. Through modern infrastructure and digital systems, the DFC network continues to reduce logistics costs and support economic growth.
