India Launches First 5 Commercial Hydrogen Fuel Cell Buses In Leh, Ladakh

India Launches First 5 Commercial Hydrogen Fuel Cell Buses In Leh, Ladakh

NativePlanet.com | Neha Choubey | June 21, 2025

Five hydrogen fuel cell buses have been launched for commercial use in Leh, Ladakh. This marks India's first commercial deployment of hydrogen-powered buses. The initiative is a significant step towards sustainable transport in challenging terrains. These buses were handed over by NTPC Limited to the State Industrial Development Corporation (SIDCO) in a ceremony at NT's hydrogen mobility station in Palam, Leh.

The world's highest-altitude hydrogen fuelling station was inaugurated by NTPC last November. Situated 11,562 feet above sea level, it operates on renewable energy from a nearby 1.7 MW solar plant. This project aims to cut carbon emissions by approximately 350 metric tonnes yearly and produce 230 metric tonnes of pure oxygen, akin to planting nearly 13,000 trees.

Hydrogen Fuel Cell Mobility

NTPC's chief secretary, Pawan Kotwal, praised the "pioneering efforts" of the corporation. He noted that successfully running hydrogen buses in such harsh conditions could herald a new era for hydrogen fuel cell mobility in India. Kotwal also instructed NTPC to document operational insights for potential replication in other regions.

Bhupesh Chaudhary, administrative secretary of the transport department, inspected the green hydrogen plant's production, storage, and dispensing systems. He applauded NTPC's technological achievement at high altitudes and emphasised its importance in achieving a carbon-neutral Ladakh. More...
https://www.nativeplanet.com/news/india-launches-first-5-commercial-hydrogen-fuel-cell-buses-in-leh-ladakh-011-016761.html

The 2 most populous nations on Earth have prioritized Hydrogen for a greener future. Neither are tied to the Petrodollar. Coincidence? You won't hear anything about India OR China and Hydrogen on CNN or MSNBC. That's for sure.