India’s First Hydrogen Fuel Cell Buses Launched by NTPC at World’s Highest Altitude in Leh

NTPC Limited has officially handed over five hydrogen fuel cell buses to the Sindhu Infrastructure Development Corporation (SIDCO) in Leh for commercial operations as of June 18, 2025. This marks India’s first-ever commercial deployment of hydrogen-powered buses and sets a new global benchmark by operating the vehicles at the world’s highest altitude. The initiative is part of NTPC’s Green Hydrogen Mobility Project in Leh, which also includes the world’s first high-altitude hydrogen fueling station, launched in November 2024. Powered by a co-located 1.7 MW solar plant, the station ensures 100% renewable energy supply to the buses, further reinforcing the project’s green credentials.

Designed for sub-zero temperatures and the rarefied atmosphere at 11,562 feet, the fuel cell buses are refueled using India’s first high-pressure (350 bar) hydrogen dispensing system. The project is expected to reduce carbon emissions by approximately 350 metric tonnes annually and produce 230 metric tonnes of pure oxygen—equivalent to the environmental benefit of planting 13,000 trees. Senior officials, including the Chief Secretary of UT Ladakh, praised the innovative deployment and called for rapid scaling of hydrogen technologies across the region to support Ladakh’s goal of becoming carbon neutral. NTPC was also encouraged to document key learnings to guide the development of similar clean energy projects in high-altitude areas.