KNR Constructions Ltd

NSE:KNRCON

Earnings Call Analysis

Earnings Call Transcript 2025-Q1

[Operator]

Ladies and gentlemen, good day, and welcome to KNR Constructions Limited Q1 FY '25 Earnings Conference Call. This conference call may contain forward-looking statements about the company, which are based on the beliefs, opinions and expectations of the company as on date of this call. These statements are not a guarantee of future performance and involves risks and uncertainties that are difficult to predict.

[Operator Instructions] Please note that this conference is being recorded. I now hand the conference over to Mr. K. Venkata Ram Rao, General Manager, Finance and Accounts, KNR Constructions Limited. Thank you, and over to you, sir.

[K. Venkata Rao, executive]

Good morning, everybody. Thank you for joining us today on the call to discuss our financial results for Q1 of FY '25. Along with me, I have Mr. K. Jalandhar Reddy, Executive Director; and Strategic Growth Advisors, our investor relations advisers.

We have uploaded results and the investor presentation on the stock exchanges as well as on our company website. I hope everyone got an opportunity to go through it. We would like to touch upon a few key company updates and the industry events, post which we will have a question and answer session.

I would now like to share our perspective on the significant industry development. With the release of the entering budget, a substantial sum of INR 11.11 lakh crores was earmarked for the infrastructure sector. This allocation underscore our pivotal role in the India growth story, signaling that the infrastructure sector [ salvaging ] a focal point of investment and development.

Additionally, the [ MoRTH ] had secured approval for a INR 22 lakh crores investment in a comprehensive highway development plan, aiming to cover 30,600 kilometers by 2031, '32. Furthermore, the cabinet approved 8 national high-speed road corridor projects with an investment [indiscernible] INR 50,000 crores.

Another promising development for the sector is that the [ MoRTH ] plan to award road contract worth 3 lakh crores over the next 3 months, which aims to close the current financial year with a INR 5 lakh crores in the award contracts despite a slow start earlier than this year.

The government has also expanded the completion deadline for Bharatmala Phase-I by 6 years from which original completion schedules. Now as per the revised schedules of Phase-I will be completed by 2027, 2028, the extension is on account of delay in the project awarding as the approval for the revised project cost was pending for cabinet's nod.

Upon the completion of the Bharatmala Pariyojana Phase-I by 2028, 2029, MoRTH anticipate gathering INR 1.25 lakh crores from user fees and monetization of the national highways, triple the amount collected in 2022, '23. The Union Budget has also allocated INR [ 15,000 ] crores for the development of Andhra Pradesh capital city.

The government of Telangana also proposing to invest INR 1.5 lakh crores in the next 5 years for rejuvenation of mostly [indiscernible] fund. This highlights the government dedication to expanding and modernizing the highway network, underscoring its commitment to create a solid transportation infrastructure that aligns with India's development and objectives.

Now coming to the key updates of the company. The percentage of fiscal progress as of June 30, 2024, for the HAM project is as follows: Magadi to Somwarpet approximately 84%, Oddanchatram to Madathukulam 100%, and we have applied for the final COD of the project; Ramanattukara to Valanchery approximately 77%, Valanchery to Kappirikkad approximately 82% and Chittor to Thatchur 63%.

As of June 30 2024, the company has already invested INR 518 crores out of INR 992 crores, revised equity requirement for the 8 HAM projects. Out of balance sheet -- equity requirement of INR 474 crores for these 8 HAM projects, INR 335 crores, INR 72 crores and INR 67 crores will be infused in 9 months of FY '25, '26 and '27, respectively. You can refer to the Slide #24 of the investor presentation for the details.

On toll collection, from the Bihar project, has a collection of INR 10 crores in Q1 FY '25 as compared to INR 11.6 crores in Q1 FY '24.

Now coming to the order book position. As of June 30, 2024, the company has a total order book position of INR 4,922 crores. This can be bifurcated as 58% of the [ EPC ] road projects and HAM projects, whereas 20% of the total order book is for irrigation project and balance 22% is from the pipeline projects.

Client-wise bifurcation is 63% of the order book is from the third-party brands and balance 37% from the captive HAM project. The third-party order book percentage is split between state government contract at 51%, whereas 10% is from central government and balance 2% from the other private players.

And we note that this order book does not include contract aggregating to INR 1,200 crores as we are yet to receive our appointed date for 2 HAM projects. If we include these, our order book will increase to INR 6,122 crores. The current order book will be executed over a period of 1.5 years.

Now with this election behind us and the strong focus on roads and highway development as indicated through budgetary allocation towards the sector, we expect new order awarding to be picked up, and we are targeting an order inflow of around INR 6,000 crores to INR 7,000 crores by the end of FY '25. Lastly, CRISIL Ratings has reaffirmed its outlook on the long-term banking facilities at CRISIL AA/Stable. And also, a short-term rating is reaffirmed at CRISIL A1+.

Now let me get through the financial performance for the quarter.

Before discussing the financial numbers, I would like to highlight that during the quarter, the company has received an arbitration claim of INR 60.8 crores, which is recognized as revenue from operations. And against that, we incurred a cost of INR 4.4 crores, which is part of other expenses. And the tax on the total arbitration claim is INR 14.2 crores, which is included in current tax. This arbitration claim is from one of our JV that is Patel KNR joint venture.

Additionally, during the quarter, one of the associate company that is Patel KNR Infrastructures Ltd. has paid dividend of INR 14.5 crores, which forms part of our other income, and the tax on same of INR 3.7 crores included in the current tax.

The revenue for the quarter stood at INR 880 crores. EBITDA for Q1 FY '25 grew by 11% year-on-year growth to INR 192 crores as compared to INR 173 crores in Q1 FY '24. EBITDA margin in Q1 FY '25 is at 21.8%. Net profit for the quarter was INR 134 crores as against INR 110 crores in Q1 FY '24, representing a growth of 20% year-on-year.

Now coming to the consolidated financial performance. The company recorded a flattish revenue of INR 985 crores in Q1 of FY '25. EBITDA came in at INR 279 crores in Q1 FY '25 to INR 216 crores in Q1 FY '24. EBITDA margin in the current quarter stood at 28.3%. Profit after tax stood at INR 166 crores in Q1 FY '25 against INR 130 crores -- INR 133 crores in Q1 FY '24, a growth of 25%.

Now we move on the stand-alone balance sheet. The company continued to maintain a strong balance sheet. The working capital days stood at 78 days as on 30 June 2024. The consolidated debt as of June 30, 2024 is [ INR 1,522 crores ] as compared to the [ INR 420 crores ] as of March 31, 2024. The net debt to equity on consolidated basis as of June 30, 2024 has stood at 0.41x as compared to [ 0.36x ] as of March 31, 2024.

With this, we open floor for question and answer.

[Operator]

[Operator Instructions] The first question is from the line of Shravan Shah from Dolat Capital.

[Shravan Shah, analyst]

Sir, the bigger question for us is the order inflow and the revenue. So wanted to understand a bit deeper in that. So starting with -- on the order inflow front, so 2, 3 aspects to understand.

First, how much orders? And also in which segments, we have already [ we did ] where outcome is yet to come? And second, when we are saying that we are looking at INR 5, 000 crores to INR 6,000 crores -- INR 6,000 crores to INR 7,000 crores kind of order inflow now, so when can it can come and also how much we are looking at from HAM? So that is one. And then post that, I have a question on the revenue front.

[K. Venkata Rao, executive]

Jalandhar, sir?

[Kamidi Reddy, executive]

So actually, as you have asked, the real concern is about order book closing as of now. So we have -- are keen on addressing that actually. We have been essentially working for the other -- hello? Yes. So we are keen -- we are closely working on that, sir. And [ number ], we all know that tenders from NHAI has been completely reduced. Maybe as per [indiscernible] statement and all, there should be a good value which is coming up from -- probably from third week of this month or from next month onwards.

So that's one of the aspects which should be there. But -- however, we expect a little bit of aggression in the sector which will do a little bit -- occupy the space. However, there are projects from Kerala, there are projects from northeastern part of India, where we have already booked -- those areas are also coming up. So mostly HAM projects are a little bit -- hopefully, we will get some -- our HAM projects which we are targeting about.

Apart from that, further, we are also very keen in working on some Maharashtra [indiscernible] projects we're also working. That means I'm not [ strategic ] qualified into it because we have -- we finish our express highway projects timely. I mean to say timely lead, the time the tender is out -- quoted. That time, our projects are not ready. So we could not qualify on that. So we are starting some sort of back-to-back arrangement with Patel infra. So I think -- so now, it will get closed. So about 2,000 plus around would be interested in participating that.

So apart from that, we are also thinking -- as you have already seen that we have laid our [ bricks ] in the metros, with NCC JV. Apart from that, we are also planning to go with the irrigation projects as we would likely qualify in many of the projects in MP, Madhya Pradesh -- in the state of Madhya Pradesh, that is what -- and even our [indiscernible] mission projects also, we have [indiscernible] this time. So we are very keen in this thing.

Apart from that, Telangana government is also coming up with some irrigation projects. So hopefully, we will try to get one project at least from that place. And Andhra Pradesh, even of now, we have now eyes open in Andhra Pradesh better than a [ year ]. So I think it is very premature to say anything.

But however, we have spoken to various ministers and all, they are very keen in coming up with tenders in highways and irrigation as well [indiscernible] probably central government to help or they are taking some back help to get into those project completion. So that is also another area which is quite open for us.

Further, we are also examining on mining contracts. So I think the JV has also started out for that. We would -- if it's healthy margins are there, definitely the [ impact ] would be very nice.

Apart from that, we are also thinking of [ not attractive ] contracts like -- there is are some back-to-back arrangements, which -- from irrigation sector or from [indiscernible] sectors. There's is a [indiscernible] contract are also coming out, which we are keen on working on that, and we are also working in [ economy ].

So these are the new areas -- even in driveways, we would like to put bits, but I think last -- from various [indiscernible], we will try to see to still participate and try to get the jobs on that. So this is the effort which we are doing, sir. And I think the efforts are enormous. And we were definitely targeting INR 6,000 crores to INR 7,000 crores by this year and maybe -- hopefully, we will get it. That's the gut feeling we have.

[Shravan Shah, analyst]

Okay. Sir, just to -- a bit further on -- just trying to understand, so this INR 2,000 crore subcontracting for MSRDC with Patel, so there, that's the one that we are looking at, which as you said, would be mostly kind of in the final stage. So apart from that, any further subcontracting in MSRDC are we looking at?

[Kamidi Reddy, executive]

No, sir, actually, primarily, I'm looking at one, let me closely work on it and see if, at all, things are working better, then some adjacent projects, participation also we can go because we are the people most wanted by the bigger contractors. I'm doing a back-to-back arrangement. Many people are there to ask me.

But I think we are just taking one project right now. It still go -- if I think that it's basically [ doing good ], then I can further also take some more projects with us.

[Shravan Shah, analyst]

Okay. And then in terms of -- and apart from that, sir, totally, how much we would have bidded in road, irrigation and the EPC? So HAM and EPC, particularly how much where we have already bidded and final award is yet to come?

[Kamidi Reddy, executive]

Only 1 or 2 projects, sir. Not much. So anything -- new bid is only the [ SOP ].

[Shravan Shah, analyst]

Okay. And that broader range, if you can help us in terms of how much more are we planning to bid? If you can also specify in terms of the overall irrigation, metro, even you talk about the mining also -- railway, mining?

So a broader -- because that will help us that this is the kind of opportunity that we are looking at in terms of bidding individual, segment-wise. So just trying to understand if the size is so bigger, then the chances of we are getting INR 6,000 crores to INR 7,000 crores inflow.

[K. Venkata Rao, executive]

Winning chances could increase. Yes.

[Kamidi Reddy, executive]

Actually, sir, that BOT tolls, we have told you that we are very keen in participating in BOT tolls with players like Cube or some other -- there are 2 other agencies are there. There -- but if you wanted me to do EPC contract for them and it's [ exclusively ] with them.

Apart from that, the size of projects are almost INR 3,000 crores to INR 4,000 crores as you have already seen in that bidding sector. Apart from that, we were also keen in [indiscernible] about, say, certain projects in which we would like to also compete with the JV -- with some of the [ investor ] groups. So that are under discussion as of now, so I can't tell you that.

Our participation will be about to the tune of 26% to 27%, and balance will be with the developer [indiscernible]. So such arrangement we are doing. So that if I get even one project out of that, I think around INR 3,000 crores, INR 2,500 crores worth of EPC will be there with me. And apart from that, MSRDC is around INR 2,000 crores, which we are thinking.

Apart from that irrigation, Telangana irrigation, which is coming out with [ 1,000, 2 lakh, 1,200, 2,200 ], all that size, they are coming out. So there is a quite good chance that if we get anything, they're saying about 1,000 crores to 2,000 crores, we can bring one contract out of that.

So even I heard the AP government is also grouping the contracts for the bigger size only. The clear details are not known, but they are also planning [ above ] INR 800 crores to INR 5,000 crores kind of arrangements there.

Apart from that railways and all, we are only participating in those tenders where there's a little bit higher -- more than 800, 700 groups only attract to participate because below that, it's highly crowded and there is no good bid that is happening there. So these are the areas we are having -- [ MSRDC ] also, there is a contract which is coming out thereof 800 [ to 1000 ], 1,200 also there, 2,200 also there. 4,000 is also there, but I will be requiring a partner to participate into that.

So all that is there in that. But there are very small contracts also there in the same group, irrigation sector within MP. So these are all the -- and the UP also, there are contracts which are coming out. And then most probably, UP, Bihar and all other places, it's a [indiscernible], which are more active. So we can even get those contracts who are above 800 only, we will be participating. That's what we are thinking.

[Shravan Shah, analyst]

Got it. Got it, sir. And lastly, sir, on the revenue front. So given this quarter obviously is on the lower side, so now for full year of FY '25, how much we can look at in terms of the revenue? And given if we get this INR 6,000 crore to INR 7,000 crore inflow in this year, so how much more -- or how much growth we can look at in terms of revenue in FY '26 next year? Either growth or maybe absolute number would be fine.

[Kamidi Reddy, executive]

Yes, actually, this -- to answer this question is a little tough. Certain things also to be take undertake -- certain assumptions and things would be taken into account. See, I would say, as of now, we could not start the work in that Mysore [indiscernible] area, where around INR 1,200 crores worth of contracts are pending for the appointed date. I think the department, the NHAI is saying that within 1 month will be resolved. So hopefully, they are really working on it.

I think the [ EC ] meeting could happen on, I think, the 20th or 22nd date for that to happen. So once that is coming in, then there will be a little scope for us to work in third quarter, not in the second quarter.

Second quarter is highly disappointing for us because the complete projects are in rainy season, and this time, rains have rocked the states. In like Kerala, you heard about what sort of [ slumps ] we are looking there. And even Mangaluru, we are taking the same situation.

So most of the [ order ] book, which is around these areas and so, a little bit disappointing results we are expecting from the second quarter. But third and fourth quarter, we'll try to do as good as [ these ]. And so assumptions, as I rightly said that assumptions like -- I would get some more orders in -- to execute in Q3 at least, and Q4.

So if I'm able to execute all these, then definitely, we will try to touch the last year results. I'm not very sure about growth on the revenue side this time. But however, we try our best in getting those things in order.

[Shravan Shah, analyst]

And for next, sir, FY '26...

[Operator]

Sorry to interrupt, Mr. Shravan, we request you to get back to the question...

[Kamidi Reddy, executive]

Yes. Let me answer this question. Yes, I got that. Yes, actually, the -- frankly speaking, on the FY '25, '26, the main thing we can -- we are, right now, targeting about INR 6,000 crores to INR 7,000 crores worth of contracts. If we receive in this year, definitely, we are quite good for that year what you are talking about. So I think we'll do better than what we have performed at least this year.

[Operator]

The next question is from the line of Alok Deora from Motilal Oswal.

[Alok Deora, analyst]

Yes. Just one question, sir. Sir, you gave a pretty elaborate answer on the order inflow and what could be the opportunities ahead. But considering that you might receive some orders by end of this year and -- or early part of next year, so FY '26, what kind of growth we could look at here?

[Kamidi Reddy, executive]

Sir, actually, if we bag back around INR 6,000 crores worth of contracts -- see, I rightly said that assumptions what we are taking into account is a major play what it happens. See, if I move to get and -- I could work from third quarter onwards at least, or our fourth quarter onwards. So FY '25 would be very, very grateful.

So these assumptions to get -- should become -- that's the major concern of this. But however, we are confident and we will definitely work towards that to get the other inflow to our company from various sectors that I've spoken about.

And main thing is that the initial aggressions could be there from [ NHAI ] side, so little bit ifs and buts. But there would still, initial stages, even if there is an aggression, we are addressing through the BOT toll projects. As already said, that we will be [ transferring ] into BOT tolls.

So even the tenders happen in, say, next month, September, then I think those works can [ ground ] in the first quarter of 2025 [ concern ]. So let's hope for the best in [ this work ]. And definitely, we are also hopeful and we are also confident about it.

[Alok Deora, analyst]

Sure. No, because when we look at the order book, it is of 6,000, including the [ 1,200 ] of projects which have not received appointed date. So we're using roughly 1.5x order book to revenue. So it's quite critically low. So do you think we could see like...

[Kamidi Reddy, executive]

It's critically low, but the thing is that expected orders are also not under execution. That is the major theme.

[Alok Deora, analyst]

Right. So do you think we could see a couple of years of kind of really muted growth? Because even if you were to bag a BOT project or a HAM project by end of this year, nothing would really start before 8, 10 months after bagging the project in terms of revenue contribution. So we could be looking at just around, at best, 5% to 10% growth in FY '26 and even FY '27.

[Kamidi Reddy, executive]

Sure. Definitely. You can -- we will work towards that, and we want to do that. I think that's very important.

[Alok Deora, analyst]

Sure, sir. I think that's all from my side. I was just looking at the revenue growth potential.

[Operator]

The next question is from the line of Vaibhav Shah from JM Financial Limited.

[Vaibhav Shah, analyst]

Sir, in the [ Manipur ], we have received the [ ADE ] in February '24 and there is no execution in Q1. So any particular...

[Kamidi Reddy, executive]

Actually -- yes, but once we started -- actually, it's a complete greenfield highway. So the -- extensively, efforts are going on in that area. Even to start the structures, we would need that highway at least some mass work to be done.

And you know that it's a rainy reason in the [indiscernible] area, the area, it is completely rain season this side. So now I think Q2, we have -- recently, we have submitted 5% [ bill ]. And 10%, we will complete -- submit it in September. So this almost -- we have reached around 9.5% by now.

[Vaibhav Shah, analyst]

So is the full year, what are the targets, around 30%, 35%?

[Kamidi Reddy, executive]

Yes, yes.

[Vaibhav Shah, analyst]

And also in case of Periya Shanti, project execution was very low in first quarter. So...

[Kamidi Reddy, executive]

Periya Shanti, it is actually -- the problem was that some time in April also, there were rains and completely May month is fully in the rains. And it's a [ PC ] pavement road and what -- a lot of development is also associated with that. So that's why the progress is very less over there.

And there is -- yesterday -- I think last Friday, we had meeting with -- review meeting with our [indiscernible], sir. We really asked about it. So we have explained all the problems with rain, we wanted an extension up to June next year.

So June next year, we are very sure that we'll be competing because I think very [ soon ] must get over by the mid of September [ 1st week ] onwards, so we should be getting the dry [ spill ] over there. So definitely, we'll work towards that, and we have targets to complete the project balanced by this June, at least, coming in.

[Vaibhav Shah, analyst]

Okay. And sir, depreciation for the quarter was very low. It fell down drastically. So what was the reason for that? And what could be the number going ahead on a quarterly or annual basis?

[K. Venkata Rao, executive]

Depreciation [ fell ], the reason is that because this -- last year, we did addition of only just INR 18 crores. And this quarter, only -- the addition of INR 10 crores only we did. With the last 2, almost [indiscernible], there is not much addition to depreciation. So that said, depreciation figure was low. And before that year, we used to do somewhere around INR 150 crores of that addition.

For our depreciation accounting policy, for the road assets, we are depreciating this on [ 800 ]. Irrigation assets, we are depreciation in the [ 3 years ]. So there is not much acquisition we did in the irrigation projects. Due to that reason, depreciating was low. And we expect that if it is to continue, definitely, we are getting new projects, then we will add it. If it is like that situation, we may end some between INR 100 crores to INR 110 crores the depreciation for the end of the year.

[Vaibhav Shah, analyst]

Okay. And sir, what kind of revenue are you targeting from irrigation segment for the year?

[K. Venkata Rao, executive]

For the year, maybe around INR 200 crores to INR 250 crores will be for entire year.

[Operator]

The next question is from the line of Lokesh Manik from Vallum Capital.

[Lokesh Manik, analyst]

I had one question on the -- on your strategy where you have mentioned that you want to increasingly pick up more projects which require higher engineering skill. So if just qualitatively, if you can give us an idea of the current order book, what percentage, in your assessment, would constitute projects? What other the projects will be having this complexity or high engineering skill?

[Kamidi Reddy, executive]

Actually, the high-end engineering projects are -- really, we have that Kerala with us, and there is a huge big structure that we are constructing, about 31 meters -- 32 meters-height flyover over there. And hoping that we have the national flyover, which is going on, I think by December, we are delivering that for -- that also.

And there are a couple of projects, new projects are also coming from that sale in [ BGM ], so -- which we are [indiscernible] those tenders right now.

And apart from that, the high-end engineering projects are coming up from some in the city sector. Like in Hyderabad also, there is enough flyover projects coming up. So we will be keen in participating in those.

So high-end -- readily complex engineering projects are more with NHAI as well as state governments. And as I have spoken that MSRDC, that express highway that we are constructing it, what we are now under the discussion; that is also having higher-end engineering structure as well as complex engineering [ projects ].

[Lokesh Manik, analyst]

About 40%, 50% of your order book, would that be a correct perception?

[Kamidi Reddy, executive]

The compound is going to be a complete high-end engineering. So I think mostly it is 60%, 70% contributing towards that.

[Lokesh Manik, analyst]

Okay. And the second question was on your strategy for BOT projects. So you would want to be an investor or you would just restrict yourself to EPC kind of work on these projects?

[Unknown Executive]

That target is to go as the EPC contractor only. But however, if at all, I have to take part for my compulsion, I am open to do it.

[Operator]

[Operator Instructions]. The Next question is from the line of Jiten Rushi from Axis Capital.

[Jiten Rushi, analyst]

Sir, my first question would be on the subcontracting work which you are targeting to take in the [indiscernible] position again. You said that there could be some conflicts either in joint venture? Or can you take a step back to like subcontracting? In such situation, what kind of EBITDA margin you are targeting?

[Unknown Executive]

So actually, BOT tolls mean the EBITDA could be as normal as it was early. I think targeting levels are maybe good early, but we'll have to see end of the day what we're going to deliver. That's bigger important because of the -- any BOT contract that doesn't come up with an escalation factor.

So what happens once there is no escalation factor we put around every year overall 5% growth on every year, we take it. So on average around 5% to 6% we will take towards the entire contract size if you take it, that's going to be around 5% to 6%, we would try to be putting it. So if that assumption goes good with that, definitely, things are in line with it.

Otherwise, some environment changes which are coming up in the input prices and all [indiscernible] between steel, cement and all other aggregates signs and everything, then we will have a little of setbacks Otherwise, everything goes normal definitely things are in normal manners..

And so the purpose of taking BOT tolls, there is a lot of risk involvement because the timelines are very important for them. So definitely, they also offer a good price to the contractors so that there should not be any ifs and buts in future for that.

So and there's the good margins only. So the entry to that sector to get the good margins, not -- if I need an ordinary project rather I would win a HAM and I do it on my own. Definitely that much margin little bit reduced to a margins, I'm quite sure as earning it.

[Jiten Rushi, analyst]

So it wasn't ready to go for any subcontracting or BOT [indiscernible] 15%, 16% EBITDA margin. And that there are revision project which you're targeting in Telangana or some of the segment, if you say that there will be higher margin?

[Unknown Executive]

Yes. Hopefully, the target is that only, definitely.

[Jiten Rushi, analyst]

So what could be the margin -- EBITDA margin guidance for FY '25, '26 broadly I'm asking? I understand if you are looking at if you can highlight for all input prices.

[Unknown Executive]

If the all input prices are normal, definitely, we are going to deliver around 16% to 15% kind of level.

[Jiten Rushi, analyst]

15%, 16%. And this is also including the high-margin Irrigation projects?

[Unknown Executive]

Everything put together only. Otherwise, I don't have that much confidence to say that. When you have normally rate like 13%, 14% I will tell you if that still the case this time, there is a little bit confidence that is there and Irrigation project also to come up and BOT toll also to do some EPC for them. So I'll add in a bit of that will -- that I have.

[Jiten Rushi, analyst]

And sir, taking about the dates for the 2 projects are being delayed. So now what is the reason why it is getting delayed? And what is the timing we are looking at to tempting upon this for this Mysore project?

[Unknown Executive]

Mysore projects, actually, Mysore project is pending for the [indiscernible]. So I think the terminal meeting is going to happen on the board meeting for the [ PC ] would happen in 20th or the 22nd, I'm not very sure about it the date and approximately around that, there is a meeting for them. And once that is through with that, I think circulation of minutes would take another 15 days. And after that, I think we can start the issues with MHAI for getting the appointed date.

As of now, the land is also -- in one project, it is already achieved about 82%. And second project around 70%, it is there. I think they are quite confident that by this month end, they are able to achieve that also. That's what we said [indiscernible] when asked for.

[Jiten Rushi, analyst]

So issued date appointed at October, hopefully.

[Unknown Executive]

Yes sir. Maybe mid of September or October, kind of that.

[Operator]

[Operator Instructions] The next question is from the line of Vasudev from Nuvama.

[Vasudev Ganatra, analyst]

Yes, sir, I just have some data-related query. Firstly, what is our outstanding with cables on the Telangana and what CapEx we are guiding for FY '25 and what you've done for the first quarter?

[Unknown Executive]

This -- as of date actually Telangana 35 receivables of INR 600 crores, but with [indiscernible] it will be around INR 900 crores as of date. Receivables are pending from the Telangana. As far as fees are still there, this quarter, we added around INR 10 crores, addition has been made in the outlook.

[Vasudev Ganatra, analyst]

About the CapEx, what we are doing?

[Unknown Executive]

Your voice is mattering.

[Vasudev Ganatra, analyst]

Sir the CapEx I'm asking. Yes, the guidance for FY '25 and what you have done in the first quarter?

[Unknown Executive]

Your voice is not audible.

[Vasudev Ganatra, analyst]

Sir, I was asking the CapEx we have guided for FY '25 and what we've done in the first quarter.

[Unknown Executive]

First quarter, we did CapEx of INR 10 crores. And this year, because as our EPC selling that we are trying to get new projects definitely based on them and which quarter we are getting to the project. Based on that CapEx requirement may change, but if we go in a normalize way, there will be somewhere around INR 80 crores, INR 100 crores addition will be there in this year.

[Vasudev Ganatra, analyst]

Okay. Okay, sir. And sir, just if you can repeat the stand-alone cash levels.

[Unknown Executive]

Stand-alone cash is INR 33 crores.

[Operator]

Next, there's a follow-up question from Faisal Zubair Hawa from H.G. Hawa & Co.

[Faisal Hawa, analyst]

Sir, what is the kind of free cash flow and cash flow from operations that we hope to generate in FY '25 assuming that we don't win too many more orders. That is one.

And sir, on the consolidated level, we are still having an intense burden of around INR 37 crores per quarter. So is there any way that we can utilize the cash that we are continuously getting from the divestment of HAM projects, et cetera, to reduce this intense burden on consol level also?

[Unknown Executive]

But in consol level, definitely, we are trying to get the monetizes of project. So if we monetize the project then whatever the debt is there, it is taken by the investor. So that is one thing that we are trying to do it. And this year, actually, we are -- because one project that is KNR filing, we already got the PCOD. So we expect that, that monetization will definitely happen in this year. And the other 3 assets, monetization is in discussion, and we expect that this Kerala 2 we should get included by end of December and from their 6 months.

So maybe by next year, September '25, you should be able to monetize that 3 assets also. So as our policy is there asset light, we will continue to do the monetization of assets. And based on that definitely what are the big levers in the consolidated will be...

[Faisal Hawa, analyst]

And about some of the free cash flow and cash flow from operations that you hope to generate in this year? Assuming that Telangana payments come through.

[Unknown Executive]

If the Telangana payment comes through, there is -- will be very much positive -- maybe more than INR 300 crores cash from operations will be.

[Faisal Hawa, analyst]

Okay. And has the Telangana government makes any kind of arrangements or banking arrangements to really get the payments through? And have you made any progress with the court case we had filed against them?

[Unknown Executive]

As far as the court case is concerned, there is no big developments because it is just -- we have just named that, it is very early to say anything about it. But I think the base will come as -- but we have discussion with the Telangana government. And they keen on paying payments by September and what they said. So let us pick on there. Otherwise, the court case also get admit to gets the dates from September onward.

[Faisal Hawa, analyst]

And sir, this time in this quarter --

[Unknown Executive]

It will be taking a little time. It is not that -- I cannot guarantee that things will be parted with the court case. But the thing is at least they'll have a threat. And second thing, it's already delayed for 1.5 year. The main intention in placing the court cases that they haven't paid us from past 1.5 year, I think. So there is an accumulated interest also in losses for us. So that we want to gain, that's where we have placed the situation there.

And court case is done for that purpose. So I'm telling the department that you pay the regular payments, whatever you can say. And after court verdicts only, you can pay the interest. Because as the rental voluntary, they don't pay the incurred part. So I think we will hopefully see that September and what happens.

[Faisal Hawa, analyst]

We can at least get half of the money?

[Unknown Executive]

Yes, sir. That's the -- I think if they pay a full deal but they don't pay the interest. That's the ...

[Faisal Hawa, analyst]

Sir, would it be right to state that in BOT at leats there's only 4 or 5 players who are going to now compete because of balance sheet strength? And what is your opinion of so many people who have taken up time order ...

[Unknown Executive]

No, no, no. It's not like that. One cannot guarantee about it like that. But I can say that there should be some sort of sensible biding, that's it.

[Faisal Hawa, analyst]

Okay. Because there is no escalation also.

[Unknown Executive]

Yes. I think BOT toll means they may not place it like EPC, they are placing like because earlier, many people have burned their hands in the toll projects. So definitely, this time, I don't think people will be brave enough to put the bids as they want to make.

[Faisal Hawa, analyst]

Sir, any progress on the input ...

[Unknown Executive]

Our progress on the input -- what our...

[Faisal Hawa, analyst]

And any progress with solar projects or how we have given up on that?

[Unknown Executive]

Solar projects, actually there is progress. It's not that right now there is no good mix that are available in space. I think there is to come, new NWDA tenders are there likely to come out and Maharashtra also came in because green energy is now required allover because of increasing requirement of the power through need and other industrialization. So definitely, the power is required. So -- and one can't say we can go for big solar. So I think there should be good value upcoming from third or fourth quarter onwards.

[Operator]

[Operator Instructions] The next question is from the line of Amitosh Kumar from Accenture.

[Amitosh Kumar, analyst]

So my question is in 2 parts. The first key part is which type of projects give you the highest margins? And do we see the same margins in the future, and this is the first part.

And second part is, what is the size of these projects in your order book?

[Unknown Executive]

Actually, so that is quite difficult to answer right now because as of now, the order book position, we may be knowing it. But actually, we have started a new sectors that BOT tolls, we want to go. We want to go in the irrigation sector in [indiscernible]. We want to go in [ algae ], we want to further go in metro flyover also. So that put together, I think it could be possible to 15%, around 15% EBITDA levels are quite possible. That's what we are thinking. Input rates are under control because everything is subjected to some kind of assumptions only entire biding and assumptions which are there right away. So that really that we should be getting through that.

[Operator]

Next question is from the line of Prem Khurana from Anand Rathi.

[Prem Khurana, analyst]

Sir, my question was with respect to the metro rail. I think you've given us a sense that for some of these projects in [indiscernible] in JV with [indiscernible]. I think the results are already out. Possible to talk about how the competition was, I mean, let's say, compared to [indiscernible]. I mean was it as competitively...

[Unknown Executive]

That is also a right question. The thing is that we were not telling anyone. I think we were staying at [indiscernible] on some positions in that. So definitely be to improve ourselves to make things work for us. So we are starting some good consultants who can guide us in such biddings and these areas. So we also need to improve what I mean to say, and we are now trying to improve ourselves.

[Prem Khurana, analyst]

Sure. And even on BOT side, and you say, I mean, you are open enough consider back-to-back subcontracting or go at a minority partner. I think I mean there are some of these other companies started talking about the similar sort of arrangements. So when you say we're engaging some of these people. So there again, I mean, how easy or difficult would it be able to have it in your favor? Because again, we have the similar situation where in some of these other companies could settle a little lower in terms of margins. So what base margin would you want to have? I mean, below which you won't go and bid for these projects?

[Unknown Executive]

So actually, the back-to-back arrangement contracts definitely, it's kind of only the lead we are paying and going into it. So it may not be a big difference that may come out. But however, wherever there is a back-to-back arrangement, let's say, EBITDA we are assuming.

Earlier, we used to deliver, I think, above 18 plus. That's why maybe we are discussing at 15% levels right now.

[Prem Khurana, analyst]

Sure. And just one last, if I may be with your permission. So we saw our net working capital cycle come down this quarter versus last quarter. But despite that, our cash balance has come down from INR 230-odd crores last quarter to INR 30-odd crores. Possible to help us reconcile that, I mean how did we use this INR 200-odd crore because our day-to-day are down, our inventory cycle is down. So overall, I mean, NWC that you are reporting, PPT is down. I mean, is it better than the unbilled revenues have gone up substantially, which is where the money would be parked for now?

[Unknown Executive]

Actually, this quarter, what we did, we did actually we have taken the disbursement from our HAM projects. Last time -- actually this time, outstanding from our HAM project is just INR 450 crores. Previously, it was somewhere around INR 700 crores. Around INR 300 crores disbursement we have taken from the HAM So that's why with both in this cash and opening case, we have utilized it to pay up our creators and [indiscernible].

Due to this reason, we could be able to maintain that our net working capital. And definitely because we did actually a lot of work which has not been certified in some of the projects. So that's why that inventory has built up basically due to irrigation and some of the growth assets. But our debt certificate will definitely take the next quarter. And we will try to maintain that network capital to existing level onward.

[Prem Khurana, analyst]

Is it possible to share? I mean, how was the movement in terms of unbilled revenue over the last quarter? What's the number at the end of this quarter or the number last quarter, the unbilled revenue?

[Unknown Executive]

This quarter will be around INR 743 crores. And compared to last quarter, it was -- it will be around INR 490 -- INR 500 crores.

[Prem Khurana, analyst]

Okay. And mobilization advances if possible please? What's the number now and what were the numbers?

[Unknown Executive]

Around INR 57 crores.

[Operator]

The next question is from the line of Parikshit Kandpal from HDFC.

[Parikshit Kandpal, analyst]

My question is on unbilled revenue in the Irrigation segment. So you said I think earlier Venkata said that it's about INR 900 crores with total exposure to Irrigation projects.

[Unknown Executive]

Yes correct.

[Parikshit Kandpal, analyst]

So is the [indiscernible] matter is now subdued. So is the client now certifying the unbilled revenues?

[Unknown Executive]

Unbilled revenues, out of INR 900 crores, INR 600 crores is the certification, INR 300 crores is that unbilled. Out of INR 300 crores, INR 100 crores that has been certifying in the -- post quarter results. So as of date, only INR 200 crores are there, which is yet to be certified.

[Parikshit Kandpal, analyst]

But is the Telangana government, I mean, the department is certifying the date?

[Unknown Executive]

Yes, they are certifying. We received a certification of INR 100 crores actually after June. After post June we've received a certification of INR 100 crores.

[Parikshit Kandpal, analyst]

Now coming to the payments. I mean the payment comes from usually from state budget. So has this -- has the part of the payment or the entire amount? Is that -- is it now part of the state budget? How will you fund this? Is that all we have to make payment.?

[Unknown Executive]

[indiscernible] still they are trying to get SLB bank disbursement, but it's related to the bank funding from the PFC and NABARD. Package 3 is that there's no outstanding. So Package 4 is come almost out of INR 600 crores, INR 557 crores from the Package 4 only and Package 4 still they're trying loan from the PFC and NABARD. So Package 4 is under the consideration with the bank actually. So once they get the bank disbursement, they will get money.

[Parikshit Kandpal, analyst]

Because earlier, I remember this was funded by NABARD. So you said, I think, NABARD is not disbursing the loans, right? So they'll need to find out new lenders to this project.

[Unknown Executive]

No, that they are working on because they [indiscernible]. So they are working on that and they have to put their reported time duration to get their disbursement from funds and institution. So when we are discussing with the government of Telangana, they are telling that they are working on that. And because as you know that the government has its own commitment towards other things also. So they are just thinking how we can [indiscernible]. What we have continues to following, the management is continue following with the government of Telangana to get release of money.

[Parikshit Kandpal, analyst]

So when is the last time you got the payment from the government?

[Unknown Executive]

We got payment in the month of -- INR 150 crores we got in month of February, actually.

[Parikshit Kandpal, analyst]

So after that, there is no payment. And since how much of work you have done after February till now until this August?

[Unknown Executive]

It's just around INR 300 crores or they started with the INR 577 there in the March stipend only.

[Parikshit Kandpal, analyst]

So because I know what gives you confidence now that you will get money because they are not paying so much of time as you're putting in your money..

[Unknown Executive]

But actually -- so generally, if they don't want to pay, they insist us to stop the works. They have been done, that feeling.

Second, actually, I myself have spoken to the concern minister also if you want us to continue, we'll continue. Otherwise, we'll stop the works because we cannot support this much payment delays. Which I clearly told him that either you continue or you ask us to close, we'll close it also. That's what we gave him the payer offering to operate. But he himself said no, it's -- we're going to solve and we want to do it because after a project has reached almost 70% above, there's no question that we will abandon that because the state will be the biggest loser, if he does that.

That's what his -- this thing. So he can himself said that word. So that's why we are continuing to and the overhead is also clocking and everything is clocking and then we have to close the contract or we have to completely do the contract. So there's no individual option for us to operate. That's the major issue, that's where we are continuing the team.

[Parikshit Kandpal, analyst]

And sir, my last question is on [indiscernible], we've been talking a lot about ordering from that segment. So have you started seeing some bids coming and new bids coming in? And what do you think would be the realistic number based on your interactions with the government officials and the secretary did, how much awards and what segments they should be able to give in this financial year? And how much you're targeting from the state?

[Unknown Executive]

So actually, I'm -- my target is about, say, INR 1,000 crores to INR 2,000 crores only. Lower side, I'm keeping it around INR 1,200 crores, I'm keeping it. Only 1 project or 2 projects because I cannot take -- I cannot get more on that as you know that. That's the thing.

And the pipeline concerned, they have come out with the news that they are starting some village roads and all, viability gap matrics. And actually, I literally had discussion with them that the chief secretary [indiscernible] that we called small meeting to the contractors who are working in that sector, mainly NHAI contractors they call one.

So we have given our presentation stating that rural roads cannot be worked with the arrangement of, let's say, PPP models, the viability gap funding. The major problem will be touching the [indiscernible]. And we don't know what sort of revenues are going to come and what sort of development do you want and what will be the cost towards that.

So definitely, that's going to be rolled out sections. So we were purposing that hybrid model, if you have the growth fund, you can go for --any of that to go for the delayed of this thing. Normally, the grant outside agency will be more than 40%.

So if more than 40%, we have to pay to take 40% and go for HAM model which is going to be more viable for you. And in future, you will get easy installments to pay. That's what the suggestion we gave, sir. I think hopefully, they had come out with that actually.

And the contract size as what you have asked, contract sizes are around, say, 800-plus onwards, there are contracts group because PPP model names, they have go for bigger size only. What we have seen is that we can do all that for [indiscernible].

[Operator]

Next is a follow-up question from the line of Shravan Shah from Dolat Capital.

[Shravan Shah, analyst]

Yes. Sir, consol cash is how much as on June?

[Unknown Executive]

Yes, Venkata, consol cash he is asking.

[K. Venkata Rao, executive]

It is around INR 70 crores, sir.

[Shravan Shah, analyst]

Okay. And sir, just for monetization. So just if you can repeat, so we are looking to monetize 4 HAM projects and we say that 3 will be done by September '25 and 1 we are looking at. So in terms of the cash, when we are looking to get the cash and if possible in terms of a broad range in terms of the valuation, how many are looking at?

[Unknown Executive]

So that valuation discussion is going on. So that's why it's -- we definitely will get very good valuation. But as far as company is concerned, that we will do in this year and other project by September '25. And then because we are under discussion with them actually. So we will tell the actual value, but we're taking definitely very good value.

[Shravan Shah, analyst]

And this entirely with the 1 buyer, the entire 4 projects?

[Unknown Executive]

We are taking it as a bulk on it because for the entire 4 projects actually, we'll do with 1 of the investors.

[Operator]

Next question from the line of Jiten Rushi from Axis Capital.

[Jiten Rushi, analyst]

One question which I have is on the claims part. So any more claims you are expecting in this year or what you receive in Q1?

[Unknown Executive]

Clearly, we understand, sir, that [indiscernible], we are participating in that [indiscernible]. So we have proposed all the projects, what are the pending claims that are there? We are proposed on it. Certain claims are getting agreed by NHAI. And I think you what I've seen that cash inflow is because of that only. We have some Orissa projects, one of the claim is submitted and another one is deferred by them. So that is -- that we are going with the court.

So around INR 25 crores, they have been agreed and around INR 70 crores, they have agreed from the Orissa contracts. And there is some 1 more in the [ AP07 ], which is islamnagar [indiscernible] project in the Telangana region. But that has got some claims and those claims refer to [ DSV ] early. So I think let's me say, we're going for [indiscernible].

[Jiten Rushi, analyst]

So what was that amount for this [ AP07 ] ?

[Unknown Executive]

I think the claim is around 200 plus, sir. So after [ DSV ] is calculating, we'll see how much to go.

[Jiten Rushi, analyst]

And sir, you said that Orissa project. The 1 which was admitted was INR 25 crore and 1 which was deferred INR 75 crores, right, sir?

[Unknown Executive]

One deferred was around INR 25 crores. The other one admittedis about INR 70 crores. So after [ DSV ] calculation, it could be around, say, some around between 50%.

[Jiten Rushi, analyst]

Okay. And sir, this monetization, which you said for Palani, we can export the project at the end of this year and the balance for the Kerala and the other set to be the end of next year, right, sir?

[Unknown Executive]

Yes, yes, correct.

[Operator]

As there are no further questions, I would now like to hand the conference over to the management for closing comments.

[Unknown Executive]

Thank you all for joining us on this call. Please reach out to our investor to consultant strategic growth adviser or us directly so if you have any further clarification. We can now close the call. Thank you.

[Operator]

On behalf of KNR Constructions Limited, that concludes this conference. Thank you for joining us, and you may now disconnect your lines.