New Delhi, Oct 9 (UNI) Despite the Covid-19 restrictions, Indian Railways’ freight loading for the month of October 2020 till October 8 crossed last year’s loading and earnings for the same period.

The Railways loaded 26.14 million tonnes which is 18 per cent higher compared to last year’s loading for the same period of 22.1 million tonnes earning Rs 2,477.07 crore which is also Rs 250.71 crore higher compared to last year’s earnings for the same period (Rs 2,226.36 crore), an official release here said.

Freight figures continued to move on a higher trajectory compared to last year in terms of earnings and loading in the first week of October for Railways.

In the first eight days of October, Indian Railways loaded 11.47 million tonnes of coal, 3.44 million tonnes of iron ore, 1.28 million tonnes of foodgrains, 1.5 million tonnes of fertilisers and 1.56 million tonnes of cement (excluding clinker).

A number of concessions/discounts are also being given in Indian Railways to make rail freight movement more attractive.

Improvements in freight movements will be institutionalised and incorporated in the upcoming zero based time table.

Covid 19 has been used by Indian Railways an opportunity to improve all round efficiencies and performances.