Bhubaneswar: In a decisive push towards sustainable urban mobility, the Odisha government is set to launch hydrogen-powered buses — becoming one of the first states in eastern India to pilot this cutting-edge, zero-emission public transport technology.An official Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) was signed on Saturday between the state government and a leading clean energy firm, marking a significant milestone in Odisha’s green energy roadmap. Under the agreement, a fleet of three hydrogen buses will begin trial operations in Bhubaneswar in the coming weeks.Housing and urban development minister Krushna Chandra Mahapatra confirmed the development, stating that a dedicated depot equipped with refueling stations and maintenance facilities for hydrogen vehicles will be established to support the initiative.“This is a crucial step towards a greener, cleaner Odisha. Three buses will run in Bhubaneswar initially, and based on the trial outcomes, the service will gradually expand to other parts of the state,” Mahapatra said.A senior transport department official said the pilot project aims to assess the operational feasibility, efficiency, and public reception of hydrogen-powered vehicles in Odisha’s urban environment. The move is expected to significantly reduce the state’s carbon footprint and align with India’s national clean energy goals, including the recently unveiled National Green Hydrogen Mission.Hydrogen buses, which emit only water vapor, offer a quieter, more energy-efficient alternative to conventional diesel and petrol buses. Their introduction is poised to transform public transport in the state capital, improving air quality and setting the stage for broader adoption of green mobility solutions.Once operational, Odisha will join a select group of Indian states experimenting with hydrogen-powered public transport, reinforcing its commitment to embracing futuristic, environmentally responsible technologies. As preparations for the trial run near completion, Bhubaneswar residents eagerly await the arrival of these next-generation buses that could redefine the way the city — and eventually the state — travels.
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