Kochi Metro Rail Limited (KMRL) has reported a substantial increase in its operating profit for the financial year 2024–25, marking the third consecutive year of achieving an operating surplus, says a release.
The metro agency registered an operating profit of ₹33.34 crore in 2024-’25, an increase of ₹10.4 crore over the previous year. The achievement highlights a remarkable turnaround since the initial years of operation. In 2017–18, the year Kochi metro commenced services, there was an operating loss of ₹24.19 crore. The operating loss narrowed to ₹5.70 crore in 2018–19 and increased again to ₹13.92 crore in 2019–20 and further to ₹56.56 crore in 2020–21. The loss subsequently reduced to ₹34.94 crore in 2021–22.
Operating profit
A major breakthrough came in 2022–23, when KMRL transitioned from operating loss to profit, recording a surplus of ₹5.35 crore. This positive trajectory continued into 2023–24, with an operating profit of ₹22.94 crore, and has now further strengthened in 2024–25 with the 33.34 crore operating profit.
In the financial year 2024–25, the metro generated an operating income of ₹182.37 crore. Of this, ₹111.88 crore came from ticket revenue, while ₹55.41 crore was earned through non-ticket sources like advertisements. In addition, KMRL earned ₹1.56 crore from consultancy services and ₹13.52 crore from other miscellaneous sources. The operating expenses for the year stood at ₹149.03 crore.
It is important to note that operating profit is calculated after excluding certain capital and financing costs such as interest, depreciation, and expenses related to non-motorised transport infrastructure, including pavement construction.
Commenting on the achievement, Loknath Behera, the Managing Director of KMRL, said: “This consistent financial progress reflects the resilience and efficiency of Kochi metro. We have not only improved operational performance but also enhanced passenger experience and diversified our revenue streams. Our goal is to build a financially sustainable, commuter-friendly metro system that the city of Kochi can be proud of.”
The KMRL’s improved financial performance underscores the success of its strategic initiatives in enhancing ridership, optimising operations, and strengthening non-fare revenue streams. The consistent growth in operating profit is a testament to the organisation’s commitment to building a sustainable and efficient urban transport system for Kochi, says the release.
Published – August 07, 2025 09:56 pm IST
