Kerala has approved the introduction of hydrogen-powered buses into the KSRTC fleet as part of its push towards clean and sustainable public transport. The decision was announced after Transport Minister C. P. John reviewed the Delhi Metro Rail Corporation’s hydrogen bus service during a visit to New Delhi.
The state government will launch the initiative as a joint pilot project between KSRTC and ANERT, with support from the Union Ministry of Road Transport and Highways. Union Minister Nitin Gadkari has directed officials to facilitate the implementation of the project.
Hydrogen fuel-cell buses emit only water vapour, making them a zero-tailpipe-emission alternative to conventional diesel buses. They can travel up to 250 kilometres on a 30 kg hydrogen tank and can be refuelled in about 10 minutes, reducing downtime compared to battery-electric buses.
Along with the hydrogen initiative, the Centre has also agreed to support KSRTC’s fleet modernisation through financial assistance and explore additional bus procurement schemes and toll concessions.
The project represents a significant milestone in Kerala’s transition towards green mobility and could position the state as a pioneer in adopting hydrogen-powered public transportation in India.
