India Launches First Indigenous Hydrogen-Fueled Passenger Vessel
In a significant advancement for green transportation, India has taken a bold step towards sustainable maritime travel. Union Minister for Ports, Shipping and Waterways, Sarbananda Sonowal, inaugurated the commercial operations of the nation’s first fully indigenous hydrogen fuel cell passenger vessel at Namo Ghat in Varanasi today. This groundbreaking vessel is a pioneering example of hydrogen fuel cell technology applied in a maritime environment, utilizing locally developed technology to power its operations.
The vessel, equipped with a Low Temperature Proton Exchange Membrane fuel cell system, converts stored hydrogen into electricity, with water as the only emission. During the launch event, Minister Sonowal expressed pride in this achievement, stating, “Under the dynamic leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, India is witnessing a transformative shift towards clean and sustainable transportation systems. The launch of our first hydrogen fuel cell vessel highlights our commitment to the Make in India initiative and our dedication to the environment.” He emphasized that this milestone aligns with the broader mission of preserving the sacred Ganga River while promoting innovative technologies.
Owned by the Inland Waterways Authority of India (IWAI) and constructed by Cochin Shipyard Ltd. (CSL), the vessel is now set to enhance India’s inland waterways. The operational launch follows successful trial runs and is part of the government’s goal to achieve net-zero emissions by 2070, reinforcing their pledge to implement clean and sustainable fuels in the country’s waterways.
The hydrogen fuel cell vessel exemplifies India’s commitment to a cleaner maritime ecosystem. Under the guidance of Prime Minister Modi and Minister Sonowal, IWAI is actively pursuing the adoption of green technologies as part of their Maritime India Vision 2030 and the ambitious Maritime Amrit Kaal Vision 2047.
Described as a 24-meter catamaran designed for urban transit, the vessel can accommodate 50 passengers in an air-conditioned cabin and operates at a service speed of 6.5 knots. Its hybrid energy system seamlessly integrates hydrogen fuel cells, batteries, and solar power, allowing for up to eight hours of operation on a single hydrogen fill. The vessel has received certification from the Indian Register of Shipping.
To support the operation of the pilot vessel, IWAI, Cochin Shipyard Ltd., and Inland and Coastal Shipping Ltd. have signed a tripartite agreement to ensure safety, technical support, and proper oversight during its initial commercial phase.
The launch of the hydrogen fuel cell vessel represents numerous advantages for urban water transport, such as noise-free transit for passengers, zero emissions, and alleviating congestion on roads. Furthermore, it is expected to promote tourism in Varanasi and create new job opportunities, placing the city at the forefront of hydrogen-powered passenger transport.
The inaugural journey of the vessel, a five-kilometer route from Namo Ghat to Lalita Ghat, was attended by various dignitaries, including state ministers and senior government officials. This noteworthy event signifies a critical progression in India’s mission to modernize and decarbonize its inland water transport network, continuing with the deployment of innovative technologies.
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