Gurgaon: The Rapid Metro in Gurgaon has recorded a steady rise in commuter numbers over the past year, reflecting growing urban mobility demand. However, escalating operating costs continue to strain the system’s financial sustainability.
According to data shared by Haryana Mass Rapid Transport Corporation (HMRTC), average daily ridership has increased to around 53,000 passengers, up from approximately 47,000 last year. Between April 2025 and February 2026, total ridership rose by 13.5% to 1.7 crore passengers, compared to 1.5 crore during the same period a year earlier.
Strong Ridership Growth Across Months
Several months witnessed notable year-on-year growth:
- July recorded the highest surge of 22.93% with 17.8 lakh passengers
- September saw 17.5 lakh commuters
- August recorded 16.6 lakh ridership
Officials attribute this consistent increase to improved service reliability and rising dependence on metro connectivity for daily commuting.
At a recent board meeting, Haryana Chief Secretary Anurag Rastogi highlighted that the growth in ridership and revenue underscores the success of integrated transport systems. He stressed the importance of timely execution of projects and better inter-agency coordination.
Rising Costs Offset Revenue Gains
Despite higher passenger volumes, financial gains remain limited. HMRTC reported a marginal surplus of ₹0.22 crore this year, compared to a deficit of ₹9.2 crore last year.
- Total income: ₹58.9 crore (up from ₹42 crore)
- Total expenditure: ₹58.7 crore
The sharp rise in expenditure—up by 14.46%—has significantly offset revenue growth.
Key cost drivers include:
- Increased power and traction expenses, reaching ₹11.26 crore
- Higher spending on rolling stock overhaul
- Maintenance of viaduct infrastructure
- Total operational costs nearing ₹32 crore
Non-Fare Revenue Becomes Key Driver
While fare revenue grew modestly by 12.6%, non-fare revenue emerged as a major contributor, increasing by over 108%.
Revenue from advertisement rights—primarily through e-auctions—more than doubled to ₹21.5 crore. Additional income from station rentals and branding activities also contributed to overall earnings.
Chander Shekhar Khare, Managing Director of HMRTC, noted that efforts are underway to further strengthen non-fare revenue streams. Plans include inviting tenders for station naming rights, which are expected to boost revenue while improving station maintenance.
Future Expansion Plans Underway
The state government is also advancing several metro and regional transit initiatives:
- Metro connectivity from Sector 56 in Gurgaon to Pachgaon is under consideration, with a depot planned near Sector 36A (Sihi village).
- The Ballabhgarh–Palwal metro extension is currently under techno-feasibility assessment by RITES.
- A fresh study is underway for Bahadurgarh–Asaudha connectivity, with plans for a new interchange station to improve ridership.
- The Gurgaon–Faridabad–Noida Regional Rapid Transit System (RRTS) corridor has received alignment approval, with DPR preparation being undertaken by National Capital Region Transport Corporation (NCRTC).
Balancing Growth and Sustainability
While the Rapid Metro’s rising ridership signals strong demand for urban transit in Gurgaon, the financial challenges highlight the need for a balanced approach. Strengthening non-fare revenue streams, improving operational efficiency, and expanding network connectivity will be critical to ensuring long-term sustainability.
