Cochin Airport to Become India’s First with Hydrogen-Powered Passenger Buses

A First for Indian Airports in Clean Mobility

Cochin International Airport Ltd (CIAL) is set to become India’s first airport to deploy hydrogen fuel cell electric buses for passenger transportation. The initiative marks a major step in India’s clean mobility transition and reflects Kerala ’s push towards low-emission, future-ready transport infrastructure in public services.

MoA Under Kerala Hydrogen Valley Initiative

A Memorandum of Agreement (MoA) has been signed between CIAL and the Kerala Hydrogen Valley Innovation Cluster Foundation .

The agreement was formally exchanged in Kochi in the presence of Kerala’s Electricity Minister K. Krishnankutty and Industries Minister P. Rajeeve .

The project is part of the Kerala Hydrogen Valley initiative , which operates under the broader framework of the National Green Hydrogen Mission .

Procurement Plan and Funding Structure

The agreement provides for the procurement and operation of three hydrogen fuel cell electric buses for use within Kochi airport. Financial support for procurement will be extended by the Kerala-HVIC Foundation, with funding capped at Rs2.90 crore per bus .

The total project outlay is limited to Rs8.7 crore , to be released in a phased manner. Procurement of the buses is expected to be completed within 12 months , enabling early operational rollout.

Ownership and Operational Responsibilities

Ownership of the hydrogen-powered buses will rest with CIAL . The airport operator will bear all operational, maintenance, and statutory compliance costs associated with running the buses.

CIAL will also determine the operational model , routes, and deployment strategy within the airport premises, ensuring seamless integration with existing passenger transport systems.

Important Facts for Exams

• CIAL will be India’s first airport to operate hydrogen fuel cell buses

• The project is part of the National Green Hydrogen Mission

• Funding support is capped at Rs 2.90 crore per bus

• Total project cost is Rs 8.7 crore

• The Kerala Hydrogen Valley initiative focuses on pilot-scale green hydrogen applications

Green Hydrogen Supply and Emission Reduction

Green hydrogen supply for the buses will be ensured through a hydrogen production plant being jointly developed by CIAL and Bharat Petroleum Corporation Limited (BPCL) .

With statutory approvals for hydrogen storage and supply infrastructure already in place, the project is positioned for early implementation. The initiative is expected to significantly reduce emissions from airport transport operations while improving passenger convenience, reinforcing Kerala’s role as a frontrunner in clean energy adoption and sustainable mobility .