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Optimisation of Workforce



              To  maximise  operational  efficiency,  KMRL  implemented  a  multi-tasking  workforce
              model, where employees were cross-trained in multiple functional roles, enabling them

              to handle diverse responsibilities beyond their primary job descriptions. This approach
              ensured  flexibility  during  emergencies,  as  staff  could  seamlessly  switch  roles  to

              address  critical  operational  needs  without  delays.  Additionally,  KMRL  conducted  a
              strategic  categorisation  of  activities,  distinguishing  between  core  and  non-core

              functions. Core operations were retained in-house to ensure quality and safety, while
              non-core activities were outsourced to specialised agencies. This approach not only

              optimised workforce utilisation but also significantly reduced labor costs by eliminating
              redundancies. As a result, Kochi Metro now boasts one of the best staff deployment

              ratios among Indian metros, with a lean yet highly efficient workforce that maintains
              high service standards while keeping operational expenses under control.
              Boosting Ridership: Strategies and Challenges



              The Kochi Metro witnessed steady ridership growth in its initial years, demonstrating

              strong  public  acceptance  and  efficient  service  delivery.  However,  the  COVID-19
              pandemic and subsequent lockdowns in 2020-21 dealt a severe blow to its operations,

              causing ridership to plummet to record lows as travel restrictions and work-from-home
              policies  drastically  reduced  passenger  demand.  To  counter  this  unprecedented

              challenge,  KMRL  launched  a  multi-pronged  recovery  strategy  aimed  at  reviving
              ridership  and  restoring  public  confidence.  One  of  the  key  initiatives  was  the

              introduction  of  attractive  fare  schemes,  including  discounted  monthly  passes,  and

              weekend  travel  offers,  which  incentivised  commuters  to  return.  Additionally,  KMRL
              strengthened first- and last-mile connectivity by integrating metro services with electric

              feeder  buses,  auto-rickshaw  networks,  and  bicycle-sharing  systems,  ensuring

              seamless  end-to-end  travel  for  passengers.  Collaborations  with  major  businesses,
              shopping  malls  and  other  institutions  further  boosted  ridership  by  providing  direct

              access for metro users. These efforts gradually restored passenger numbers, though a
              full  recovery  to  pre-pandemic  levels  required  sustained  engagement  and  innovative

              mobility solutions.
              Beyond Ticket Sales: Commercial Utilisation of Metro Spaces


              Recognising  that  metro  systems  cannot  sustain  operations  solely  through  fare

              revenues,  KMRL  adopted  an  innovative  approach  to  revenue  generation,
              transforming underutilised assets into profitable ventures. One key strategy was the
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