Varanasi: In a significant step toward strengthening India’s clean and sustainable inland water transport network, Union Minister for Ports, Shipping and Waterways Sarbananda Sonowal on Thursday inaugurated the country’s first indigenously built hydrogen fuel cell vessel at Namo Ghat, Varanasi.
The launch officially began commercial service for the 24-metre hydrogen-powered catamaran, signalling India’s move to modernise its river transport network with low-emission technologies, according to an official release.
In a post on X, Sonowal said: “Varanasi today stands at the heart of this transformation, emerging as a vibrant hub of inland water transport with major ongoing projects shaping a modern, future-ready river ecosystem.”
Developed by Cochin Shipyard Limited under the Ministry’s Harit Nauka programme, the vessel serves as a pilot project showcasing India’s capabilities in next-generation green mobility. The boat accommodates 50 passengers in an air-conditioned cabin and draws power from a hydrogen fuel cell system supported by batteries – a combination that generates electricity without releasing pollutants, leaving behind only water and heat.
Sonowal noted that India is witnessing a major transition toward cleaner and self-reliant transport solutions under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi. He said the hydrogen vessel reflects the government’s commitment to indigenous manufacturing, the expansion of green mobility, and efforts to preserve the Ganga. The minister emphasised that India’s push for advanced technologies on waterways demonstrates an approach where innovation and environmental stewardship progress together, contributing to a greener maritime future.
Designed specifically for urban water transit, the catamaran operates at a service speed of 6.5 knots. Its hybrid system – integrating hydrogen fuel cells, batteries and solar panels – can sustain operations for up to eight hours on a single hydrogen refill. The vessel has also received certification from the Indian Register of Shipping.
To facilitate on-ground operations of the pilot craft, named FCV Pilot-01, a tripartite agreement has been signed between the Inland Waterways Authority of India, Cochin Shipyard Ltd., and Inland and Coastal Shipping Ltd. The arrangement defines operational roles, technical support, financial terms, safety protocols, monitoring systems, and inspection schedules during the pilot phase.
The hydrogen-powered vessel is expected to enhance mobility in Varanasi by offering a quieter travel experience, eliminating smoke and harmful emissions, and helping ease traffic on city roads through faster water-based transit.
