Haryana Metro Ridership Jumps 13.5% in 2025-26, Fueling Expansion Plans
Chandigarh: Haryana's urban transit network is experiencing a remarkable surge, with metro ridership climbing by a robust 13.5% during the 2025–26 fiscal year. This significant growth underscores rising commuter confidence and a definitive shift towards public transportation in the state.
Strong Performance and Financial Gains
The progress was thoroughly reviewed at the 64th Board Meeting of the Haryana Mass Rapid Transport Corporation (HMRTC), chaired by Chief Secretary Anurag Rastogi on Thursday. From April 2025 to February 2026, the metro network served over 1.74 crore passengers, a notable increase from 1.53 crore in the same period the previous year.
July emerged as the standout month, recording the highest monthly growth at an impressive 22.93%. Other months maintained consistent positive trends, indicating improved service reliability and sustained commuter preference for the metro system.
Financially, the metro's performance has been equally strong. Fare revenue increased by 12.64% up to January 2026, aligning closely with the ridership growth. Notably, non-fare revenue skyrocketed by 108%, driven by effective monetization of station spaces, advertisements, and commercial activities. This surge has resulted in an operating surplus for Rapid Metro.
Further initiatives, including the auction of station naming rights and additional advertisement sites, are expected to bolster HMRTC's financial position even more.
Leadership Applauds Success and Outlines Future Projects
Appreciating the outstanding performance, Chief Secretary Anurag Rastogi stated that the consistent rise in ridership and revenue reflects the success of Haryana's integrated transport strategy. "This growth demonstrates our commitment to providing efficient and reliable public transit options," he remarked.
Managing Director of HMRTC, Chander Shekhar Khare, highlighted that alongside operational gains, the state is making steady progress on an ambitious pipeline of metro and regional transit projects. Several key expansions are currently under active consideration:
- Metro connectivity from Sector 56 in Gurgaon to Panchgaon is being studied, with HSIIDC reviewing the Detailed Project Report (DPR) and layout plan. A depot location in Sector 36A near Sihi village is being finalized.
- The Ballabhgarh–Palwal metro extension is undergoing a techno-feasibility assessment by RITES.
- A fresh study for Bahadurgarh–Asaudha connectivity is being undertaken following HRIDC's decision to develop a new interchange station at Asaudha to enhance ridership.
These developments signal Haryana's proactive approach to expanding its metro network, aiming to further boost public transport adoption and urban mobility across the region.
