Delhi has launched its first hydrogen shuttle service to connect a major Metro station with nearby government offices as part of a pilot to demonstrate zero emission commuter links. The service is intended to offer a clean last mile connection for staff and visitors to administrative buildings. City officials framed the initiative as a step towards decarbonising urban transport and testing hydrogen for routine short distance trips.

A small fleet of hydrogen fuel cell shuttles operates on the designated route, each vehicle powered by fuel cells that produce only water vapour as a by product. Vehicles are designed for frequent short runs and rapid turnaround at a central hub adjacent to the Metro station. The shuttle capacity and frequency have been arranged to match office shift patterns.

The pilot is being delivered through a collaboration between the transport department and energy partners who will provide hydrogen supply and maintenance support. Refuelling infrastructure has been installed at a nearby depot to enable daily operations and reduce downtime. Officials will monitor reliability, range and operating costs during the trial.

Planners highlighted that the shuttle is intended to reduce local emissions and noise while complementing the existing Metro network for urban connectivity. The project is also being observed for its potential to ease congestion by offering a convenient alternative to private vehicles for short trips. Data from the pilot will inform decisions about scaling the service to additional routes.

Commuter response and operational metrics will determine whether the scheme moves from pilot to a wider programme, and authorities said lessons learned will shape procurement and hydrogen supply strategies. If successful, the model could be replicated to link other transport hubs with government and commercial centres across the city.