Maharashtra’s first green hydrogen bus trial launched in Pune under the state’s 2023 policy.
Seven-day pilot run by MEDA, PMPML, Tata Motors, and Indian Oil.
Success could lead to hydrogen buses joining Pune’s public transport fleet.
Pune, 16 October 2025: Pune took a significant leap towards sustainable urban mobility as Maharashtra’s first green hydrogen-powered bus was successfully tested in the city under the Maharashtra Green Hydrogen Policy 2023. The pilot run, part of the central government’s National Green Hydrogen Mission, was conducted on Wednesday on roads near Aundh.
The trial, launched by the Maharashtra Energy Development Agency (Mahaurja) in collaboration with the Pune Mahanagar Parivahan Mahamandal Limited (PMPML), Tata Motors, and Indian Oil Corporation, will continue for seven days. During this period, the bus will operate on different routes across Pune to assess its performance under varied traffic and weather conditions.
Anand Raidurg, General Manager of Mahaurja’s Project Division, said the initiative aims to explore alternative energy solutions amid rising fuel costs and growing environmental concerns.
He explained that experts from agencies such as ARAI, CIRT, the Regional Transport Office (RTO), and Tata Motors will monitor the vehicle’s performance, resolve any technical issues, and ensure compliance with national safety standards before further implementation.
Hydrogen fuel, Raidurg noted, is produced from natural gas, water, or biomass through processes such as electrolysis or steam methane reforming. “It’s a clean and renewable energy source that helps cut emissions and supports India’s energy transition goals,” he said.
PMPML Chairman and Managing Director Pankaj Deore highlighted that the public transport body has been steadily shifting toward greener technologies. “PMPML has already adopted electric and CNG buses. With this hydrogen bus trial, we are exploring another clean fuel alternative. Based on the results, we aim to introduce hydrogen buses into Pune’s fleet soon,” Deore said.
The initiative represents a crucial step in Pune’s ongoing efforts to build a low-emission public transport network. If successful, hydrogen buses are expected to significantly reduce carbon emissions, improve air quality, and lessen dependence on conventional fossil fuels.
Hydrogen buses are already operational in cities like Delhi and Vadodara, and Pune has now joined this growing list of Indian cities advancing toward a cleaner, greener future.
