Nepal poised to run vehicles on hydrogen energy, says PM Oli
KATHMANDU: Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli has announced that Nepal is now capable of operating vehicles using hydrogen energy, marking a significant leap towards green energy and technological advancement in the country.
Speaking at a ceremony held in Kathmandu on the occasion of National Information and Communication Technology Day 2082, PM Oli highlighted Nepal’s abundant electricity production capacity, asserting that the country is ready to provide the power necessary for the development and deployment of technologies like Artificial Intelligence (AI).
“We now have electricity. As we establish more projects and expand infrastructure, we will generate even more. Not just for hydropower—Nepal can now also provide green hydrogen energy,” said Oli. He recounted his recent experience of riding in a hydrogen battery-powered vehicle, stating, “That was experimental, but we have now reached a stage where we can operate vehicles and even public buses on hydrogen energy. It is time to expand this capability.”
He emphasized Nepal’s natural potential for development, pointing out the country’s rich natural resources, including land and minerals, and encouraged utilizing them responsibly for national progress.
Appeal for Foreign Investment in ICT
PM Oli also made a strong appeal to international investors to put their money into Nepal’s Information and Communication Technology (ICT) sector.
Highlighting improvements in infrastructure, road connectivity, and a favorable investment climate, he said Nepal is now ready to welcome foreign partnerships in digital innovation.
“Our country is fertile and full of life. There are vast opportunities for investment here,” he said. “Let us move forward with the belief that we can make a difference in our time. The journey of progress must continue.”
He praised the increasing use of ICT in governance, education, and public services, referencing efforts such as conducting online classes for key subjects in response to high failure rates in the Secondary Education Examination (SEE). “Such initiatives must be encouraged to ensure students’ futures are not put in jeopardy,” he added.
Warning Against the Misuse of Technology
While hailing the progress in the digital realm, the Prime Minister also warned against the misuse of technology, particularly artificial intelligence, for unethical purposes.
“We must remain alert to the misuse of technology for promoting falsehood or undermining integrity,” Oli said. “Let us ensure technology is not used to cultivate dishonesty or murder truth. AI should not be a tool to water the roots of lies.”
He stressed that with every technological advancement, corresponding solutions must also be developed to safeguard society and promote wellbeing. “We must work to make human society happier through technology, not vulnerable,” he urged.
Push for National Data Security and Digital Sovereignty
Prime Minister Oli called for the establishment of a national data system with robust security, emphasizing the need for digital sovereignty. He noted that, although Nepal has come a long way from the days when one needed ministerial connections just to get a telephone line, the country must now strive to launch its own satellite and produce a new generation of tech experts.
New Milestone for e-Governance
In a major step toward e-governance, PM Oli launched the integration of driver’s licenses and vehicle ownership certificates (blue books) from Bagmati Province into the Nagarik App, allowing citizens to access key services digitally.
The event also saw the National ICT Awards being presented, with renowned academician Prof. Dr. Shashidhar Ram Joshi among those honored for contributions to the field.
Looking Ahead
Closing his address, Prime Minister Oli urged the nation to step forward with confidence and determination in the digital era. “Let us carry forward our efforts with self-belief and enthusiasm,” he said. “We must expand ICT infrastructure and produce skilled human resources to ensure inclusive development and good governance.”
