Kochi: The Kochi Metro Rail Limited (KMRL) has reported an operating profit of ₹33.34 crore for the financial year 2024–25, marking a significant increase of ₹10.4 crore over the previous fiscal. This is the third consecutive year that the company has achieved an operating surplus. 

KMRL stated that the achievement highlights a remarkable turnaround since the initial years of operation. “In 2017–18, the year Kochi Metro commenced services, the organisation reported an operating loss of ₹24.19 crore. While the loss narrowed to ₹5.70 crore in 2018–19, it widened again to ₹13.92 crore in 2019–20 and further to ₹56.56 crore in 2020–21.

The loss reduced to ₹34.94 crore in 2021–22. A 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,” KMRL said in a statement.

In the financial year 2024–25, Kochi 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. 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.

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.

"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," Loknath Behera, IPS, managing director, KMRL, said.