300 ml Hilly Aqua biodegradable bottle. | Photo credit: SPECIAL ARRANGEMENT
In support of eco-friendly packaging, Hilly Aqua, the state-owned drinking water brand for the public sector, has introduced biodegradable bottles. As part of the pilot project, the biodegradable variant will initially be available in 300ml bottles.
Kerala Irrigation Infrastructure Development Corporation (KIIDC) under the Ministry of Water Resources is spearheading the initiative. Hilly Aqua CEO V. Saji said the bottles are manufactured using polylactic acid (PLA) preforms obtained from natural sources such as corn and sugarcane.
Ecological alternatives
“These bottles are lightweight, transparent and designed for composting under specific industrial conditions, ensuring they do not contribute to long-term pollution,” said Mr Saji. He noted that while the government has previously banned standard 300ml plastic bottles, these eco-friendly alternatives are suitable for use. Commercial production is expected to begin soon.
With green protocols in place at tourist destinations and pilgrimage centers like Sabarimala, officials believe these bottles will be widely accepted. While current regulations generally ban plastic water bottles smaller than half a liter, these new containers circumvent this restriction by using biodegradable materials.
Water Resources Minister Roshy Augustine officially launched the biodegradable bottles in Thiruvananthapuram on Wednesday.
Water Resources Minister Roshy Augustine launches Hilly Aqua biodegradable bottles in Thiruvananthapuram on Wednesday. | Photo credit: SPECIAL ARRANGEMENT
“Currently, Hilly Aqua products are manufactured at the Thodupuzha and Aruvikkara plants, with plans to commission new facilities at Kattappana and Aluva within the next month,” said Mr. Aqua. Augustine. He added that the fifth plant is under development at Chakkittapara in Peruvannamuzhi in Kozhikkode district.
“The government has created a distribution network through food outlets, the Kerala State Road Transport Corporation (KSRTC) and the railways. Notably, Kerala has become the first state in India to export bottled water produced by the government to international markets. The raw materials for the biodegradable venture are supplied by Eight Specialist Services, a Kochi-based start-up,” said Mr. Augustine.
According to officials, Hilly Aqua is becoming one of the leading drinking water brands in the state. The Muttom outlet in Thodupuzha reports an average monthly sales of ₹5,000. Water is available in sizes from 300 ml to 20 liter cans. While the standard price for a 1-litre bottle is ₹15, it is provided at a subsidized rate of ₹10 at KSRTC and railway stations.
Published – 26 Feb 2026 20:48 IST
