At the inauguration of the Lucknow-Kanpur Expressway, Nitin Gadkari announced plans for 'flying buses' to enhance urban mobility and tackle traffic congestion.
New Delhi, India Jul 15, 2026 ALN: In a bold move to revolutionize urban transportation, Union Minister for Road Transport and Highways, Nitin Gadkari, announced plans to introduce "flying buses" in Indian cities. This announcement came during the inauguration of the Lucknow-Kanpur Expressway, where Gadkari emphasized the need for innovative solutions to address the growing traffic congestion in rapidly urbanizing areas. As urban populations continue to swell, the demand for efficient and sustainable transportation systems has never been more critical.
Gadkari stated, "Soon, I am going to introduce flying buses. I have already brought seaplanes that can land on water. I even landed one in the sea myself. Under my ministry, I will develop a Mass Rapid Transport System powered by electricity. It will enable people to travel from one corner to another so quickly that they won't even realize how fast they reached." This initiative is part of a broader vision to enhance public transport and reduce reliance on traditional road vehicles, which are increasingly becoming inadequate in the face of urban sprawl.
The introduction of flying buses is seen as a potential game-changer for urban mobility. With cities facing increasing traffic woes, Gadkari's proposal aims to provide a swift and efficient alternative to conventional transport methods. The flying buses are expected to operate as part of an electric mass rapid transport system, which aligns with the government's push towards sustainable and eco-friendly transportation solutions. This focus on sustainability is particularly important in the context of climate change, as urban areas are significant contributors to greenhouse gas emissions.
In recent years, Indian cities have witnessed a dramatic rise in the number of vehicles on the roads, leading to severe traffic congestion, increased pollution levels, and longer commute times. Gadkari's announcement comes at a time when the Indian government is actively exploring various modes of transport to improve connectivity and reduce travel times. The concept of flying buses, while ambitious, reflects a growing trend towards integrating advanced technologies in public transport systems. Countries around the world are increasingly investing in aerial mobility solutions, with several companies developing prototypes and conducting test flights.
Flying buses could potentially alleviate some of the pressure on ground-based transportation networks by utilizing airspace for short-distance travel. This would not only reduce congestion on roads but also minimize travel time significantly. However, the successful implementation of such a system would require extensive infrastructure development, regulatory frameworks, and safety measures to ensure public acceptance and operational efficiency.
Amidst the excitement surrounding the flying buses, Gadkari also addressed recent controversies regarding the rollout of E20 petrol, a fuel blend containing 20% ethanol. Critics have raised concerns about its impact on vehicle performance and fuel efficiency. In response, Gadkari challenged detractors to identify any specific vehicle that has experienced issues due to the use of E20 petrol. This controversy highlights the tensions that often accompany the introduction of new fuel standards and the transition towards alternative energy sources.
During his address at the Viksit Bharat Conclave, he highlighted that India's dependence on fossil fuels poses both economic and environmental challenges, with the country spending approximately ₹22 lakh crore annually on fuel imports. He asserted, "There is no case of any car facing issues due to E20 petrol. Has there been any car in the country that faced issues due to the use of E20 petrol? Just name one.” This statement underscores the government's commitment to reducing reliance on imported fuels and promoting domestic production of biofuels as a means to enhance energy security.
Gadkari further criticized what he termed as "false narratives" surrounding the higher ethanol-blended fuel, suggesting that these claims are part of paid campaigns aimed at discrediting the initiative. The transition to E20 petrol is part of India's broader strategy to achieve environmental sustainability and reduce carbon emissions from the transportation sector. Ethanol, being a renewable resource, offers a cleaner alternative to conventional fossil fuels, which are responsible for significant pollution and greenhouse gas emissions.
In addition to promoting flying buses and addressing the E20 petrol controversy, Gadkari made a strong case for hydrogen as the next frontier in clean mobility. He noted his personal use of alternative-fuel vehicles and encouraged the public to experience these technologies firsthand. His advocacy for hydrogen fuel aligns with global trends towards cleaner energy sources and reducing carbon emissions. Hydrogen, as a fuel, produces only water vapor when burned, making it an attractive option for achieving zero-emission transportation.
India's interest in hydrogen fuel is part of a larger global movement towards sustainable energy solutions. Several countries are investing heavily in hydrogen technology, viewing it as a key component in the transition to a low-carbon economy. The potential for hydrogen fuel cells to power vehicles, including buses and trucks, could significantly reduce the carbon footprint of the transportation sector. Gadkari's push for hydrogen reflects a recognition of the need for diverse energy sources to meet the growing demands of the transportation industry while addressing environmental concerns.
As India continues to explore innovative transportation solutions, Gadkari's vision for flying buses represents a significant step towards modernizing urban mobility and addressing the pressing challenges of traffic congestion and environmental sustainability. The successful implementation of flying buses and the transition to alternative fuels like E20 and hydrogen could not only transform urban transportation in India but also position the country as a leader in the global movement towards sustainable mobility.
In conclusion, while the concept of flying buses may seem ambitious, it embodies a forward-thinking approach to urban transportation that prioritizes efficiency, sustainability, and technological advancement. As urban areas continue to expand and evolve, initiatives like these could play a crucial role in shaping the future of mobility in India.
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