Hydrogen buses are being tested for a proposed Greater Noida–Agra service through the Yamuna Expressway, with the Yamuna Expressway Industrial Development Authority (YEIDA) expected to decide on regular operations after the trial concludes on September 30.
The trial is intended to identify the technical and operational challenges of running hydrogen buses on a longer intercity route. The proposed service could improve travel between Agra and Noida Airport, although a final decision on regular passenger operations will depend on the trial results.
YEIDA began operating three hydrogen buses in cooperation with NTPC on June 12, alongside electric buses. The hydrogen buses were initially operated up to Noida, but the service was stopped after around 15 days. During that period, the buses faced operational issues, including problems with air-conditioning systems and low passenger numbers.
The buses are now being tested on the Agra route through the Yamuna Expressway. The exercise is examining how the vehicles perform over a longer distance and what practical problems could arise during regular operations. The trial is also intended to help identify possible solutions before a permanent service is considered.
According to YEIDA Additional Chief Executive Officer Rajesh Kumar Singh, the authority will take a decision on running the hydrogen buses regularly for passengers after the testing is completed at the end of September. The authority has not yet announced the final frequency, fares, stop pattern or launch date for a regular service.
NTPC has provided the three buses and is also arranging the hydrogen fuel required for their operation. YEIDA is responsible for overseeing their operation and management. The reported range of the buses is around 600 kilometres on a single hydrogen refill, a factor relevant to testing their suitability for the Greater Noida–Agra route.
The trial comes as authorities assess alternative fuels for longer-distance public transport. Unlike the earlier operation limited to Noida, the current test covers the full proposed corridor and is intended to evaluate vehicle performance, passenger operations and route-level requirements. The outcome will determine whether the buses move from a demonstration and testing phase to regular public service.
For passengers, the proposed route could create a direct clean-mobility link between Greater Noida and Agra if YEIDA approves regular operations. The authority’s next decision is expected after the trial ends on September 30.
