In a determined push towards sustainable mobility and green energy transformation, Himachal Pradesh Chief Minister Thakur Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu has directed the Himachal Road Transport Corporation (HRTC) to explore the introduction of green hydrogen-powered buses as part of the state’s vision to become a green energy state by March 2026. This move marks a critical step in reimagining public transportation in the hilly state, which faces unique geographical challenges and depends heavily on road-based mobility for both people and goods.
Chairing a high-level review meeting with senior HRTC officials and state ministers, the Chief Minister emphasized the need to modernize and strengthen transport services to match the region’s difficult terrain. Stressing that HRTC is a lifeline for the people of Himachal, he assured that the state government will provide all necessary support to enable the corporation to become more efficient, environmentally conscious, and technologically robust.
As part of this green transformation, 297 type-I electric buses will be deployed across Himachal Pradesh by March 2026, while procurement for an additional fleet of 30 type-II e-buses is currently underway. The Chief Minister’s directive to study the feasibility of green hydrogen propulsion indicates a shift towards next-generation clean energy transport solutions. With India exploring hydrogen as a major fuel source under its National Green Hydrogen Mission, Himachal’s initiative could position it as a frontrunner in high-altitude hydrogen mobility deployment.
Alongside this vision, the Chief Minister laid out a comprehensive plan to digitally revamp the HRTC’s operations. He instructed that a single-window pass system be created to simplify the application process for concessional passes. The HRTC has also been directed to implement a real-time bus monitoring mechanism and digitize all administrative functions through the e-office system. This tech-forward approach is expected to reduce bureaucratic delays, improve transparency, and provide better service to commuters.
Acknowledging the critical role of transport in ensuring economic and social mobility across the mountainous state, Chief Minister Sukhu announced that a new HRTC workshop would be set up in Theog, Shimla. This will not only facilitate regular maintenance of vehicles in the region but also create job opportunities and bolster local infrastructure.
Deputy Chief Minister Mukesh Agnihotri, who was present at the meeting, extended his appreciation to the employees of HRTC and provided constructive suggestions for enhancing operational performance. The meeting was also attended by Public Works Minister Vikramaditya Singh, Infrastructure Advisor Anil Kapil, Additional Chief Secretary R.D. Nazeem, Principal Secretary Devesh Kumar, Secretary to Chief Minister Rakesh Kanwar, OSD to Chief Minister Gopal Sharma, and Managing Director of HRTC Dr. Nipun Jindal, along with other senior officials.
Himachal Pradesh’s journey toward becoming a green energy state by 2026 is being closely observed both nationally and globally. The exploration of hydrogen-fueled buses, coupled with the aggressive rollout of electric mobility solutions and digital infrastructure, underlines the government’s progressive and environmentally responsible approach. These measures are expected not only to reduce the state’s carbon footprint but also to serve as a model for other hilly regions around the world facing similar climatic and topographical constraints.
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