Kochi Water Metro to use H2 boat for airport service

Kochi: With an eye on maximum environmental benefit, Kochi Water Metro plans to deploy fast-paced electric-hydrogen hybrid vessels for the proposed airport connectivity from Aluva.Currently, Water Metro operates vessels that primarily run on electricity stored in batteries, but also equipped with diesel generators. While there is fear about battery supply shortage in the future, diesel is a known environmental pollutant."We plan to deploy fast boats in Aluva-Airport section so that commuters can reach airport terminal from Aluva in around 10 minutes," Kochi Water Metro Ltd (KWML) chief operating officer Sajan P John told TOI.Electric-hydrogen vessels are considered among the most-environment friendly as water vapour and heat are the only byproducts during operation. Cochin Shipyard Ltd (CSL), which is manufacturing the first set of 23 ferries for Water Metro, has built the first ever green hydrogen ferry in the country. The 50-passenger capacity vessel with zero pollution is currently deployed in Varanasi in Uttar Pradesh.Bharat Petroleum Corporation Ltd (BPCL) has initiated talks with KWML, which authorities termed as "positive". Agency for New & Renewable Energy Research and Technology (Anert), under department of power, govt of Kerala, has extended a subsidy scheme as well for hydrogen ferries.Hydrology study to be over by March endHydrology study on operating the fast vessels from Aluva to Nedumbassery via Periyar, roughly 8km, and then connect to airport from its southern end via Chengal Canal, is ongoing."Main aim of the study is to scientifically determine whether the boat services will affect water flow pattern. The same is expected to be completed by next month end, following which we will submit a report to state govt, seeking project implementation," the official said.To ease travel woes caused by road congestionThe project is expected to ease travel inconvenience caused by road congestion. Water Metro authorities also plan to construct a skywalk connecting Aluva Metro station to Aluva Water Metro terminal to facilitate seamless transportation. "We require separate funds for hydrogen boats and infrastructure development, which we expect to get once the project gets final nod," the official added.BPCL and Cochin International Airport Ltd (Cial) jointly set up south India's first green hydrogen plant and fuelling station on airport premises. The 1,000-kilowattt green hydrogen plant will have a capacity to produce 80kg of green hydrogen daily.Hydrogen the future fuelKWML is actively examining future options including solar energy and hydrogen-powered vessels, given zero-emission and diminishing cost. "Our priority is sustainable water transportation," the official said.Cost of hydrogen has fallen from Rs 960/kg two years ago to Rs 360 per kg. According to a CSL official, the trend is likely to continue with the Centre aiming to cut the cost further to $1 (Rs 80) per kg by 2030.