Bhubaneswar: The Odisha government is preparing to introduce hydrogen-powered buses in Bhubaneswar by establishing a green hydrogen production and refueling facility at Capital Region Urban Transport’s (CRUT) Pokhariput depot. This initiative, planned on a pilot basis, will begin with the deployment of three hydrogen fuel cell electric buses, marking the first such public transport service in the city.
Project Overview and Collaboration
The decision was made during a high-level review meeting on Wednesday to assess the proposed green hydrogen mobility project. The program will be implemented jointly by CRUT, the National Thermal Power Corporation (NTPC), and GRIDCO, the bulk electricity supplier. Together, these three agencies aim to roll out hydrogen-based public transportation in Odisha and build the state’s first green hydrogen ecosystem focused on urban mobility, according to a statement from the housing and urban development department.
The meeting was chaired by additional chief secretary Usha Padhee, who reviewed progress after the tripartite memorandum of understanding was signed by NTPC, GRIDCO, and CRUT. Officials examined key aspects required to move the project from planning to execution, including operational arrangements, route selection, financial feasibility, risk-sharing, and the division of institutional responsibilities.
Green Hydrogen Production and Environmental Impact
According to official sources, the proposed hydrogen production unit is expected to generate about 260 kilograms of green hydrogen per day. This output is intended to support hydrogen fuel cell buses that, under ideal operating conditions, could run up to 600 kilometers daily. Authorities stated that the project is designed to provide a cleaner and more efficient alternative for city commuters by eliminating tailpipe emissions and reducing carbon dioxide emissions by nearly 900 tonnes each year.
Financial Breakdown and Approvals
The facility is estimated to cost approximately Rs 53.55 crore. Of this, Rs 19.52 crore has been approved as financial assistance under the National Green Hydrogen Mission through the Ministry of New and Renewable Energy. The remaining amount will be met through contributions from participating stakeholders, along with applicable state support mechanisms.
The review also covered land allotment, regulatory clearances, viability gap funding options, and coordination frameworks to ensure long-term sustainability and prudent implementation. Padhee directed the agencies to address pending issues, maintain transparency, and establish monitoring and coordination systems for timely delivery.
