Kathmandu: A vehicle powered by both petrol and hydrogen, developed by the Institute of Engineering, Pulchowk Campus, was inaugurated on Monday by Minister for Physical Infrastructure and Transport, Devendra Dahal. The innovative vehicle marks a significant step in promoting cleaner and more efficient energy use in Nepal.
At the inauguration event, Minister Dahal emphasized the government’s commitment to the development of innovation and technology, stating that it remains a top priority. He highlighted that the use of technology is essential in facilitating progress and prosperity and reaffirmed the government’s readiness to support alternative energy, research, and technological advancements to achieve the vision of a prosperous Nepal.
Dahal also pointed out the rising global carbon emissions, largely caused by industrialized nations, and how they affect countries like Nepal, contributing to pollution from the mountains to the seas. He stressed the importance of addressing these global challenges and underscored the need to promote environmentally friendly and renewable energy sources.
Keshav Kumar Sharma, Secretary of the Ministry, stated that hydrogen, a natural resource in Nepal, could play a crucial role in industrial production and use, with the ministry ready to create the necessary legal frameworks. Dr. Prakash Thapa, who led the development of the petrol-hydrogen combustion engine, explained that this model could reduce petrol consumption and that the technology could revive hundreds of old vehicles currently out of use.
Following the event, Minister Dahal, along with MP Thakur Gaire and former Minister Karn Bahadur Thapa, took a brief ride in the newly converted vehicle. The event was also attended by Nepal Electricity Authority’s Executive Director Kulman Ghising, hydrogen experts, and senior faculty members of the Pulchowk Campus. Dr. Indra Prasad Acharya, Campus Chief, and Assistant Dean Chintamani Pokharel both stressed the need to encourage further innovation in Nepali engineering and technology.
