Himachal Pradesh is set to significantly expand its green public transport network, with Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu announcing the procurement of 1,000 additional electric buses and plans to introduce 100 hydrogen-powered buses. The announcement was made after flagging off 297 new electric buses for the Himachal Road Transport Corporation (HRTC), taking the state’s electric bus fleet to 500 vehicles.

The new electric buses are expected to replace ageing diesel vehicles, reducing fuel consumption, lowering carbon emissions and improving the financial sustainability of HRTC. According to the state government, operating an electric bus costs around ₹36–38 per kilometre, compared to ₹76–86 per kilometre for a diesel bus, resulting in savings of nearly ₹40–50 per kilometre.

The government also plans to issue tenders for the additional electric buses during the current year. Alongside battery-powered buses, Himachal Pradesh is evaluating the introduction of 100 hydrogen buses, positioning the state among the early adopters of hydrogen-powered public transport in India. Future electric buses are expected to offer an improved driving range of 250–300 kilometres per charge, supported by an expanding charging infrastructure across HRTC depots.

As part of the broader modernisation drive, the state also launched the HimBus Plus Card, a digital ticketing initiative that offers fare discounts and cashback benefits to frequent passengers. The initiative is aimed at promoting cashless travel while improving commuter convenience.

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The announcement reflects Himachal Pradesh’s ambition to become a leading green energy state by promoting sustainable mobility solutions. With continued investments in electric and hydrogen-powered transport, the state is working towards reducing emissions, cutting operational costs and building an environmentally friendly public transport system for the future.

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