DMRC Hydrogen Bus: The Delhi Metro Rail Corporation (DMRC) has launched a hydrogen-fuelled shuttle bus service in the capital’s Central Vista area. This service will be particularly beneficial for those who work in the area or commute there daily. The new shuttle service aims to provide better connectivity between metro stations and key government offices. According to the DMRC, these buses, based on hydrogen fuel cell technology, are eco-friendly and will help reduce pollution. Connecting major locations within the Central Vista area, the bus service will offer passengers a convenient and clean mode of transport.
The DMRC’s hydrogen shuttle bus service will currently be limited to Delhi’s Central Vista area. The bus will operate between the Central Secretariat Metro Station and the Udyog Bhawan Metro Station, providing improved connectivity for employees and commuters visiting the area. Along its route, the bus will cover several key government buildings and important landmarks in Central Vista. These include Kartavya Bhawan, Vigyan Bhawan, Nirman Bhawan, Akbar Road, Baroda House, the National Stadium, the National Gallery of Modern Art (NGMA), and India Gate.
When and at what time will the hydrogen shuttle bus be available?
The DMRC’s hydrogen shuttle bus service has been launched with a specific focus on office-going employees and commuters. Consequently, the service will operate only on working days. Buses will be available from Monday to Friday but will not run on gazetted holidays. Regarding timings, the hydrogen shuttle buses will operate from 8:30 AM to 12:30 PM and from 3:30 PM to 6:30 PM. For the convenience of passengers, a bus will be available every 30 minutes.
What will the fare be, and how can passengers make payments?
The fare for the DMRC’s hydrogen shuttle bus service is determined based on the distance traveled—specifically, the number of stages. To avail of this service, passengers will need to purchase a ticket priced at either ₹10 or ₹15. DMRC has provided multiple payment options for the convenience of passengers. Commuters can purchase tickets using the National Common Mobility Card (NCMC), UPI, or cash.
What is a hydrogen bus, and what are its key features?
With electric buses already operating in Delhi, one might wonder why hydrogen buses were introduced. The standout feature of these buses is their hydrogen fuel cell technology, which distinguishes them from vehicles running on conventional fuels and, in many respects, even from electric vehicles. Hydrogen buses use hydrogen gas as fuel. Electricity is generated through a chemical reaction between hydrogen and oxygen within the fuel cell, powering the bus. This process emits no polluting smoke; instead, the only by-product is water vapor. This is why it is considered a clean and eco-friendly transport technology.
DMRC’s new hydrogen shuttle buses aim to reduce pollution in the capital and promote green public transport. These buses have been provided by Indian Oil Corporation Limited (IOCL). Designed with passenger convenience and safety in mind, each bus has a seating capacity of approximately 35 passengers. Additionally, the buses are equipped with GPS tracking systems and CCTV cameras to ensure real-time monitoring and security.
Hydrogen Shuttle Bus Service at a Glance
Operates between Central Secretariat and Sewa Tirath Metro stations; service available Monday to Friday; operating hours: 8:30 AM – 12:30 PM and 3:30 PM – 6:30 PM; frequency: one bus every 30 minutes; fares: ₹10 and ₹15; payment options: NCMC card, UPI, and cash; seating capacity: 35 passengers; features: GPS tracking, CCTV cameras, hydrogen fuel cell technology, and eco-friendly transport.
