R N Singh, General Manager Southern Railway on the nation’s 77th Republic Day unfurled the National Flag. In his address to fellow railway men, he said “Our revenue continues to show steady growth during 2025–26 (up to December), with gross earnings of ₹9,846 crore, registering an increase of 7.5 per cent over the corresponding period of the previous year.”
Business Performance
In the freight segment, SR handled 30.54 million tonnes, compared to 29.34 million tonnes last year, reflecting robust operational performance.
In the passenger segment, 579 million originating passengers were carried during 2025–26, a 6.2 per cent increase yoy while maintaining an impressive 92 per cent punctuality, despite increase in volume of traffic.
Train services
During the year, six new trains with LHB coaches and Four Amrit Bharat trains and one Passenger train were introduced. To cater to seasonal demand, SR operated 3,570 special train trips in addition to regular services while 111 coaches were permanently added to several trains.
One hundred Mail/Express/ Passenger trains were speeded up. Moreover, 46 ICF coach trains were converted to LHB coaches increasing capacity and adding to passenger comfort.
Passenger Amenities
SR commissioned 51 lifts and 12 escalators. 13 Foot Over Bridges and 37 platform raising works were completed and 143 stations have been made 100 per cent Divyangjan compliant.
Infrastructure Development
Infrastructure projects commissioned during the year included 4th Line between Chennai Beach and Chennai Egmore; new line between Karaikkal and Peralam and new line between Chinna Salem and Porpadakurichi.
A total of 253 track kilometres were electrified during the year, taking the total electrified network to 4,943 route kilometres. Further, 286 route kilometres on the Coimbatore– Jolarpettai section is expected to be upgraded to 130 kmph during current year.
Safety
Safety was given highest priority during the year as follows:
107 Emergency Sliding Booms and 53 electrically operated lifting barriers were provided at level crossings and 16 level crossing gates were interlocked.
Additionally, 117 bridges were rehabilitated or replaced;
15 ROBs and 20 RUBs/LHS were completed and 21 manned level crossings were eliminated.
Advanced safety systems were strengthened with MSDAC commissioned over 299 track sections; Electronic Interlocking at 12 stations ; Video surveillance System commissioned at 19 stations, taking the total to 95 stations; 71 non-interlocked level crossings equipped with CCTV Security
