CHENNAI: Southern Railway recorded originating gross earnings of ₹13,778 crore in 2025-26, an 8.84% increase over the previous year, General Manager U Subba Rao said on Saturday while addressing the 80th Independence Day celebrations at the Railway Stadium in Perambur.Subba Rao hoisted the National Flag and received the Guard of Honour from RPF contingents and the St John’s Ambulance Brigade. Senior railway officials, employees, representatives of recognised unions and associations, attended the programme.Giving an overview of the zone’s performance, Subba Rao said originating gross earnings during the current financial year up to July 2026 had grown 6% compared with the corresponding period last year.“Indian Railways has always been much more than a transportation system. It has been a powerful symbol of national integration, connecting people, regions, cultures and aspirations across the length and breadth of our country. Southern Railway, as an integral part of this great country, has continued to uphold its legacy through its commitment to safety, efficiency, reliability, passenger service and excellence,” he said.Southern Railway handled 42.184 million tonnes of freight in 2025-26, up from 41.731 million tonnes the previous year. Passenger traffic stood at 767.65 million originating passengers, registering 4.7% growth. Despite introducing new trains and operating special services, punctuality stood at 91.3%, the third-highest in Indian Railways.During 2025-26 and up to July 2026, 39 pairs of new trains were introduced and around 7,550 special train trips and new MEMU services were operated. A total of 100 trains were permanently augmented with 121 additional coaches, while 31 pairs were converted to LHB coaches.The GM also highlighted infrastructure works, including commissioning of the Velachery–St Thomas Mount section. Across the zone, 73 lifts, 19 escalators and 29 foot overbridges were commissioned, while 127 platform raising or extension works were completed.“Safety continues to remain our highest priority. During 2025-26 and up to July 26, 102 projects comprising of Road Over Bridges, Road Under Bridges and Limited Height Subways were completed and 51 manned level crossings were eliminated. Interlocking of 19 level crossings, modernization of signaling systems and installation of CCTV surveillance have further strengthened the safety and security of our railway system,” he said.Subba Rao also said Railway Hospital, Perambur, had become the first hospital in Indian Railways to receive a Corneal Eye Banking licence. Around 3,000 candidates were recruited through various recruitment channels during 2025-26.
