Union ministers Nitin Gadkari and Pralhad Joshi have initiated the first trials of hydrogen-powered heavy-duty trucks by Tata Motors in New Delhi. The aim is to evaluate the viability of these trucks for long-haul transportation solutions. Gadkari praised Tata Motors for leading the way in green transportation with hydrogen fuel, emphasizing its potential to transform India's transportation sector by reducing emissions and enhancing energy self-reliance. The trial, funded under the National Green Hydrogen Mission, will span 24 months and involve 16 advanced hydrogen-powered vehicles with different capabilities. These trucks, utilizing Hydrogen Internal Combustion Engines and Fuel Cell technologies, will undergo testing on major freight routes in India, including those around Mumbai, Pune, and Delhi-NCR. The first batch of three trucks will operate on specific routes to gather data and assess performance. Pralhad Joshi highlighted the importance of hydrogen in India's shift towards a sustainable, zero-carbon future, aiming to reduce reliance on fossil fuels and enhance energy security. The move is crucial as vehicular pollution, particularly from diesel vehicles, significantly contributes to PM 2.5 levels in urban areas. By introducing hydrogen-powered trucks, the initiative seeks to address environmental concerns and decrease emissions from heavy vehicles, playing a pivotal role in improving air quality.