Delhi commuters have received a major boost in public transport as a hydrogen-powered shuttle bus service officially began operations on May 15. The eco-friendly initiative has been launched jointly by the Delhi Metro Rail Corporation (DMRC), the Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs, and the Ministry of Petroleum.
The new shuttle service will run between the Central Secretariat and Seva Tirtha metro stations, offering convenient last-mile connectivity for government employees as well as the general public. The move is also expected to reduce dependence on private vehicles and promote cleaner transportation in the national capital.
Hydrogen Bus Service Timings
The hydrogen shuttle buses will operate from Monday to Friday in two shifts:
- Morning: 8:30 AM to 12:30 PM
- Evening: 3:30 PM to 6:30 PM
Passengers can expect a bus every 30 minutes, with services available in both directions throughout the day.
Key Benefits of Hydrogen Buses
The launch of hydrogen-powered buses is being seen as a major step toward sustainable and pollution-free urban transport. These buses will help commuters travel smoothly between metro stations and nearby government offices, making daily travel more convenient.
By improving last-mile connectivity, the service aims to encourage more people to choose public transport instead of personal vehicles, which could help ease traffic congestion and reduce air pollution in Delhi.
Hydrogen Bus Route and Covered Areas
The shuttle route will connect several important government offices and prominent locations in central Delhi. Key stops include:
- Kartavya Bhawan
- Vigyan Bhawan
- Nirman Bhawan
- Akbar Road
- Baroda House
- National Stadium
- National Gallery of Modern Art
- India Gate
The service is expected to benefit thousands of office-goers and visitors traveling across these areas.
Hydrogen Bus Fare and Ticket Booking
DMRC will manage ticketing and overall bus operations, while Indian Oil Corporation Limited (IOCL) will provide hydrogen fuel and drivers for the buses.
Passengers can purchase tickets using:
- NCMC cards
- UPI payments
- Cash
The fare for the hydrogen shuttle buses has been fixed at Rs 10 and Rs 15, making the service affordable for daily commuters.
How Does a Hydrogen Bus Work?
Hydrogen buses operate using advanced fuel cell technology. Hydrogen gas is stored in high-pressure tanks placed on the roof of the bus. Inside the fuel cell stack, hydrogen reacts with oxygen from the air to generate electricity.
This electricity powers the electric motor that drives the bus. Unlike conventional fuel-powered vehicles, hydrogen buses do not release harmful smoke or toxic emissions. The only byproduct produced during the process is water vapor, making the technology highly environment-friendly.
Will Hydrogen Buses Replace CNG Buses?
Hydrogen buses are considered a cleaner and more advanced alternative to traditional CNG buses. At present, some transport systems are already using H-CNG technology, where hydrogen is mixed with CNG to lower carbon emissions.
Experts believe that as hydrogen production and refueling infrastructure improves in the coming years, hydrogen-powered buses could gradually replace conventional CNG buses. In addition to being eco-friendly, these buses are also expected to reduce operational costs, which may help keep public transport fares affordable in the future.
