CHENNAI: The Southern Railway (SR) revenue had a steady growth during 2025–26 (9 months up to December), with gross earnings of Rs 9,846 crore, an increase of 7.5% over the corresponding period of the previous year.
In the freight segment, 30.54 million tonnes were handled compared to 29.34 million tonnes last year, said SR’s general manager RN Singh during Republic Day celebrations on Monday.
“In the passenger segment, 57.9 crore originating passengers were carried during 2025–26, marking 6.2% increase over the previous year, while maintaining 92% punctuality. SR operated 3,570 special train trips in addition to regular services. Six new trains with LHB coaches, four Amrit Bharat trains and one passenger train were introduced. A total of 111 coaches were permanently augmented in various trains and 100 mail/express/passenger trains were speeded up. Moreover, 46 ICF coach trains were converted to LHB coaches,” he explained.
SR has commissioned 51 lifts and 12 escalators, 13 Foot Over Bridges and 37 platform raising works were completed and 143 stations have been made 100 percent disabled compliant. A total of 253 track kilometres were electrified, taking the total electrified network to 4,943 km. Further, 286 km on the Coimbatore–Jolarpettai section are expected to be upgraded to 130 km/h during the current year.
“Advanced safety systems were strengthened over 299 track sections, electronic interlocking at 12 stations. A video surveillance system was commissioned at 19 stations and 71 non-interlocked level crossings were equipped with CCTV. Around 568 offenders and 834 criminals were arrested and property worth Rs 47 crore was recovered. Passenger belongings worth Rs 16 crore were traced and returned,” Singh added.