Pune begins trial run of buses running on green hydrogen

Marking a significant step toward sustainable urban mobility, Pune administration has launched trials of a hydrogen fuel-powered bus under the National Green Hydrogen Mission. The week-long trials will be conducted across multiple city routes to assess the feasibility of integrating hydrogen buses into Pune’s public transport network.

The initiative is a collaborative effort between Pune Mahanagar Parivahan Mahamandal Ltd (PMPML), Tata Motors, and the Maharashtra Energy Development Agency (Mahaurja). The Automotive Research Association of India (ARAI), Central Institute of Road Transport (CIRT), and the Regional Transport Office (RTO) are overseeing the trials. Moreover, Mahaurja is the project’s key coordinator.

“This is the fuel of the future that will surely reduce pollution,” said PMPML Chairman and Managing Director Pankaj Deore. “This marks Pune’s first step toward implementing the Maharashtra government’s Green Policy. After the trial, all stakeholders will review the performance parameters. If successful, a hydrogen fuel centre may be established in Balewadi.”

The bus, powered by fuel cell technology, generates electricity from hydrogen to run an electric motor, producing zero tailpipe emissions.

According to Anand Raidurg, General Manager of Mahaurja’s project division, hydrogen-based vehicles can substantially cut India’s oil import costs and help achieve energy self-reliance. “Heavy vehicles are major contributors to pollution, but these buses emit nothing harmful,” he said, adding that successful trials could lead to similar projects in Mumbai, Nagpur, and Nashik.

Each hydrogen bus costs about Rs 2.5 crore, though the government provides a 30% subsidy for local bodies adopting such clean transport solutions. Subsidies are also available for refueling infrastructure. “The main challenge is producing and distributing green hydrogen efficiently,” Raidurg noted. “Yet, this transition is essential for achieving truly clean and sustainable mobility.”

Hydrogen-powered buses are already running in Delhi and Vadodara. Last year, green hydrogen run buses were flagged off in Ladakh and Leh as part of special initiatives. Recently, Odisha government signed an agreement with NTPC for introducing green hydrogen mobility in the eastern state.