CIAL to Operate Hydrogen-Powered Buses

Cochin International Airport Ltd (CIAL) is set to become India’s first airport to operate hydrogen-powered buses for passenger transportation, marking a significant step in the country’s clean mobility transition. The initiative aligns with Kerala’s broader push towards green energy and low-emission infrastructure in public transport systems.

MoA Signed Under Kerala Hydrogen Valley Initiative

A Memorandum of Agreement has been signed between CIAL and the Kerala Hydrogen Valley Innovation Cluster Foundation. The agreement was formally exchanged by Kerala Electricity Minister K. Krishnankutty and Industries Minister P. Rajeeve in Kochi. The project forms part of the Kerala Hydrogen Valley initiative under the National Green Hydrogen Mission.

Procurement and Funding Structure

The agreement covers the procurement and operation of three hydrogen fuel cell electric buses at Kochi airport. Financial support for procurement will be provided by the Kerala-HVIC Foundation, with funding capped at ₹2.90 crore per bus. The total project outlay has been limited to ₹8.7 crore and will be released in stages. Procurement of the buses is scheduled to be completed within 12 months.

Operational Responsibility and Ownership

Ownership of the hydrogen-powered buses will vest with CIAL. The airport operator will bear all operational, maintenance, and statutory expenses. CIAL will also decide the operational model, passenger routes, and deployment strategy within the airport premises, ensuring integration with existing transport services.

Important Facts for Exams

• CIAL will be India’s first airport to deploy hydrogen fuel cell buses.
• The project is part of the National Green Hydrogen Mission.
• Funding support is capped at ₹2.90 crore per bus.
• Kerala Hydrogen Valley focuses on pilot-scale green hydrogen applications.

Green Hydrogen Supply and Emission Reduction

The project is expected to improve passenger convenience while significantly reducing emissions from airport transport operations. Fuel supply will be ensured through a green hydrogen plant being jointly developed by CIAL and Bharat Petroleum Corporation Limited. With statutory approvals for hydrogen supply infrastructure already in place, the initiative is positioned for early implementation, reinforcing Kerala’s leadership in clean energy adoption.