BHOPAL (Metro Rail News): West Central Railway recorded originating revenue of ₹4,695.41 crore in the first half of FY 2026-27, marking a 9.4% increase over the same period last year. Bhopal Division emerged as the key driver force of the success by generating ₹1,096.27 crore, while freight traffic remained the zone’s largest source of earnings.
The zone earned ₹403.58 crore more between April and September 2026 than the ₹4,291.83 crore recorded during the corresponding period of FY 2025-26. The increase reflects higher earnings across its passenger, freight and other railway business segments.
Freight traffic accounts for the largest share
Freight operations generated ₹3,030.46 crore, accounting for the bulk of West Central Railway’s originating revenue during the six-month period. Passenger services contributed ₹1,409.83 crore. The remaining earnings came from other coaching services and miscellaneous sources.
| Revenue segment | Earnings (April-September 2026) |
| Freight Traffic | ₹3,030.46 crore (64.54%) |
| Passenger Traffic | ₹1,409.83 crore (30.03%) |
| Miscellaneous Sources | ₹155.88 crore (3.32%) |
| Other Coaching Segments | ₹99.24 crore (2.11%) |
| The total originating revenue | ₹4,695.41 crore |
Bhopal Division generated ₹1,096.27 crore during the period, making it a significant contributor to the zone’s overall revenue. The figures provided do not include a year-on-year comparison for the division alone.
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Passenger services expanded to meet demand
West Central Railway has taken several steps to accommodate passenger demand and improve the availability of confirmed berths. These include operating special trains alongside regular services, extending the runs of selected trains and attaching additional coaches. The railway has also introduced additional stoppages at various stations in response to demand. These measures are intended to provide more travel options and ease pressure on services with high waiting lists.
Freight infrastructure remains a focus
With freight accounting for the largest share of earnings, the railway is also working to improve the infrastructure used to handle goods traffic. The measures include:
- Upgrading loading and unloading facilities at goods sheds.
- Developing additional freight-handling infrastructure.
- Establishing cargo terminals and railway sidings.
These facilities can help improve the movement of goods by making loading and unloading more efficient and expanding access for freight customers.
Also Read: South Western Railway Records 5.9% Growth in Freight Loading in September 2026