In a groundbreaking initiative, the Transport Department, UT Ladakh, is poised to commence operations of five Hydrogen Fuel Cell Buses utilizing water conversion into fuel technology—an unprecedented venture in India. The decisive steps towards this zero-emission hydrogen mobility project were discussed in a significant meeting chaired by Administrative Secretary Amit Sharma. Deliberations included the proposal for the operationalization of these innovative buses and the finalization of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between the National Thermal Power Corporation (NTPC) Ltd. and the Transport Department, UT Ladakh, in a Hybrid Meeting at the Conference Hall, Secretariat, Leh.
The NTPC team presented a comprehensive overview of hydrogen-based projects in Ladakh, shedding light on deployment timelines for hydrogen fuel cell buses, particularly focusing on the pioneering use of water conversion into fuel technology in these five buses—a groundbreaking achievement for the nation.
Discussions between Transport Secretary Amit Sharma and the NTPC team emphasized the outlines of the proposed MoU, highlighting collaborative efforts between the UT Ladakh Transport Department and NTPC.
The meeting delved into considerations such as the earliest availability of buses, optimal deployment routes, oxygen bottling facilitated by NTPC through Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) initiatives for Ladakh’s tourists, solar plant integration, and tariff considerations.
Administrative Secretary Amit Sharma expressed that this initiative is a decisive stride towards sustainable and eco-friendly transportation solutions in Leh, setting a trend for the entire nation. Through collaborative efforts and innovative strategies, the project aims to usher in a new era of mobility while mitigating environmental impact. Sharma elaborated that the emission from these hydrogen cell-fueled buses will be water vapor, aligning perfectly with the Prime Minister’s vision to see Ladakh as the first fully Carbon Neutral State/UT in Bharat.
The meeting concluded with a consensus on key action points, reaffirming the commitment of NTPC and the Transport Department to the successful implementation of the zero-emission hydrogen mobility project in Leh.
The meeting was attended by Skeikh Nazir, Regional Transport Officer, Ladakh, and other concerned officials. Additionally, Assistant Regional Transport Officer, Leh, Under Secretary to the Administrative Secretary, Traffic Manager, SIDCO, and representatives from NTPC joined virtually.
