Kochi Metro: Year-wise Revenue, Expenditure and Operating Performance

The financial and operating performance of Kochi Metro Rail Limited shows a clear turnaround story over the past nine years. Between 2017-18 and 2019-20, the metro operated at consistent losses despite rising ridership and services, with losses narrowing from ₹43.29 Cr to around ₹21–22 Cr. The pandemic year 2020-21 severely impacted operations, with passengers dropping to 38 lakh and losses widening sharply to ₹72.39 Cr. Recovery began in 2021-22 and accelerated strongly from 2022-23 onward, when the metro posted its first operating profit (₹5.35 Cr). Profits have since grown steadily, reaching ₹33.35 Cr in 2024-25, supported by significant growth in passengers (356 lakh) and improved revenue efficiency. Average revenue per service and per passenger have strengthened over time, while average cost per passenger has steadily declined since the pandemic peak, indicating improved operational efficiency. Overall, the data reflects a post-COVID recovery phase marked by rising ridership, better cost control, and sustained profitability.