Kochi Corporation seeks consultants for ₹500-crore municipal bond issuance

The Kochi Corporation is preparing to enter the municipal bond market, with plans to issue bonds worth up to ₹500 crore to finance development and infrastructure initiatives across the city. The civic body is expected to soon invite expressions of interest from consultants to guide the process.

According to the Mayor, the Corporation has been consulting with regulatory bodies including the Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI) to ensure compliance with capital market norms. The authority is initially exploring the issuance of municipal bonds worth ₹150 crore, with an additional ₹150 crore designated for green bonds focused on environmental sustainability and climate change mitigation efforts.

Municipal bonds represent an alternative financing mechanism for civic infrastructure, allowing local bodies to raise funds directly from capital markets. For Kochi, the proposed bond issuance would support ongoing development projects while also advancing the city's environmental objectives through dedicated green financing.

The engagement of financial consultants will be critical in navigating regulatory requirements and structuring the bond offerings to appeal to potential investors. The move reflects growing interest among Indian municipalities in accessing capital market instruments to fund large-scale infrastructure development.