New Delhi: India marked a major milestone in green maritime mobility as the country’s first indigenous Hydrogen Vessel began commercial service on the Ganga in Varanasi. Union Minister for Ports, Shipping and Waterways Sarbananda Sonowal flagged off the maiden run at Namo Ghat. The launch marked the nation’s entry into hydrogen-powered passenger transport. The vessel uses a low-temperature proton exchange membrane fuel cell system. It converts stored hydrogen into electricity and emits only water.
Hydrogen Vessel milestone strengthens clean waterways and green transport vision
The Minister said the launch reflects a shift toward clean, sustainable and self-reliant transport systems under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi. He added that the Hydrogen Vessel supports the Make in India initiative. It also reinforces the commitment to rejuvenating the Ganga and promoting eco-friendly waterborne mobility. Built by Cochin Shipyard Ltd. and owned by the Inland Waterways Authority of India, the 24-meter catamaran carries 50 passengers. It can operate for up to eight hours on a single hydrogen fill.
The vessel uses a hybrid system that integrates fuel cells, batteries and solar power. This combination enables a service speed of 6.5 knots. The Indian Register of Shipping certified the vessel after completing all required trials. Further, a tripartite agreement between IWAI, Cochin Shipyard Ltd. and Inland and Coastal Shipping Ltd. sets out operational support, safety procedures and monitoring during the pilot phase.
The maiden five-kilometer voyage from Namo Ghat to Lalita Ghat included ministers, officials and dignitaries. The vessel offers noise-free, smoke-free and zero-emission travel. It is expected to reduce congestion and boost tourism. Leaders from the Ministry and the Government of Uttar Pradesh attended the event. They reaffirmed the broader objective to modernise and decarbonise inland waterways under Maritime India Vision 2030 and Maritime Amrit Kaal Vision 2047.
