‘He Lived Up To PM’s Call’: Odisha Man’s Petrol-Free Bike Wins Internet [Watch]

Cuttack/Bhubaneswar: As fuel prices continue to climb across India, residents in Odisha are feeling the pinch with petrol currently retailing at around ₹106-110 per litre and diesel hovering near ₹102 per litre in the state as of late May 2026.

In this challenging scenario, a man from Cuttack has captured widespread attention online by creating a “petrol-free bike” — a cleverly modified bicycle designed to mimic the look and feel of a motorcycle. A video of him riding the custom vehicle has gone viral on social media, drawing praise for its ingenuity during times of rising costs.

The clip shows the innovator comfortably pedalling his creation on Cuttack roads, turning heads as onlookers watch with curiosity. From the visuals, the cycle has been transformed with a wider, more comfortable seat, motorcycle-style handlebars, and a redesigned body that gives it a distinct bike-like appearance. It runs entirely on human power, requiring no fuel.

Social media users have lauded the effort as a perfect example of “desi innovation” and local engineering skills. One caption accompanying the post noted, “This bike runs without petrol. Somewhere in Cuttack, Odisha.” Many highlighted the timely relevance amid ongoing fuel price increases, with comments like “Good for him during this fuel price rise It gives the feel of a bike without needing petrol” and “Good for health.”

Some drew a humorous connection to broader calls for fuel conservation, with one user joking, “He lived up to PM’s call without sacrificing his passion.” Others appreciated the creativity but noted practical aspects, pointing out that while the wider seat adds comfort, the heavier design might require more pedalling effort. “He did a good job,” one commenter remarked.

Similar stories of grassroots innovation have emerged in the past, reflecting resourcefulness in the face of economic pressures. While not a complete replacement for motorised transport, such creations highlight how individuals are adapting creatively to everyday challenges. As fuel prices remain a hot topic, this viral clip from Odisha serves as a light-hearted yet practical reminder of human ingenuity in uncertain times.