India, Aug. 7 -- Himachal Pradesh has inducted 297 new electric buses in a single rollout, taking its operational e-bus fleet to 407.

Officials say the new buses will operate on 318 routes and cover about 75% of the state, as Himachal tries to cut transport-related emissions.

The expansion comes as new vehicle registrations in the state have risen nearly 78-fold since 2000, adding to congestion and air pollution concerns.

The transition still faces major hurdles, including high upfront costs, limited charging infrastructure, battery performance in cold and steep terrain, and the need for buses designed for Himalayan roads.

For decades, Himachal Pradesh's identity has been built around its forests, mountains and clean air. But a drive ...