Nitin Gadkari Says No Future For Petrol Vehicles

Union Minister for Road Transport and Highways Nitin Gadkari has said that petrol and diesel vehicles do not have a long-term future in India. Speaking at Busworld Conclave 2026, he urged the automobile industry to rapidly shift towards cleaner fuels and more efficient public transport systems.

He highlighted that rising fuel imports and growing pollution concerns are forcing India to rethink its transport strategy and adopt sustainable alternatives.

Push For Cleaner Fuels And Hydrogen Adoption

Nitin Gadkari stated that petrol and diesel vehicles are creating serious challenges for the country, both economically and environmentally. He pointed out that India’s heavy dependence on fossil fuel imports is a major concern, making alternative energy solutions essential.

He encouraged manufacturers to adopt cleaner options such as biofuels and other indigenous energy sources that can reduce import dependency and lower emissions. According to him, the focus should be on cost-effective, pollution-free, and locally developed solutions to modernise the transport sector.

Highlighting future innovation, Gadkari described hydrogen as a key fuel for the next phase of mobility. He said pilot projects involving hydrogen-powered buses and trucks are already being tested on multiple routes. He also stressed that research and development in hydrogen technology will be crucial going forward.

Alongside fuel transition, he underlined the importance of strengthening public transport. With expanding highways and urban mobility networks, efficient and reliable public transport systems will play a central role.

Gadkari also spoke about improving bus quality and safety. He said passenger expectations are evolving, and manufacturers must ensure better comfort, reliability, and adherence to global standards. Safety in bus construction, he added, cannot be compromised.

India’s Transport Sector Faces Major Transition

The remarks at Busworld Conclave 2026 clearly indicate a shift away from petrol and diesel vehicles in India. With increasing focus on hydrogen, biofuels, and improved public transport, the country is moving toward a cleaner and more sustainable mobility ecosystem.

As environmental concerns grow and fuel import costs rise, the transition to alternative energy sources is expected to accelerate in the coming years.