India's first hydrogen-powered ferry launched at Varanasi, Pg1

Key Highlights:

• India's first indigenous hydrogen-powered ferry commenced commercial operations in Varanasi in December 2025.
• The ferry, developed by Cochin Shipyard Limited (CSL), was flagged off by Union Minister for Ports, Shipping and Waterways Sarbananda Sonowal.
• Operated by the Inland Waterways Authority of India (IWAI), the vessel is deployed on the River Ganga.
• It is a 24-meter catamaran designed to carry 50 passengers and operates with zero emissions.
• The initiative aligns with India's National Green Hydrogen Mission and its goal of achieving net-zero emissions by 2070.

Detailed Insights:

• The ferry utilizes Low Temperature Proton Exchange Membrane (LT-PEM) fuel cell technology, converting hydrogen into electricity with water as the sole byproduct.
• This project is a significant step towards decarbonizing India's inland water transport sector and promoting sustainable mobility.
• The vessel operates on a hybrid system, integrating hydrogen fuel cells with onboard batteries and solar panels, allowing up to eight hours of operation on a single hydrogen fill.
• Its deployment supports the Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways' broader vision for clean fuels, as outlined in Maritime India Vision 2030 and Maritime Amrit Kaal Vision 2047.
• The ferry was built at a cost of ₹18 crore, with 75% of the project cost met by the Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways.
• The success of this pilot project could lead to the replication of hydrogen-powered vessels in other parts of the country, with states like Goa already considering similar initiatives.

Scientific/Technical Concepts Involved:

• Green Hydrogen: Hydrogen produced through electrolysis of water using renewable energy sources, resulting in zero carbon emissions.
• Fuel Cell Technology: An electrochemical device that converts the chemical energy of a fuel (like hydrogen) and an oxidizing agent (like oxygen) into electricity, heat, and water.
• Proton Exchange Membrane (PEM) Fuel Cell: A type of fuel cell that uses a solid polymer membrane as an electrolyte to conduct protons, known for its high power density and quick startup.
• Catamaran: A multi-hulled vessel featuring two parallel hulls of equal size, offering greater stability and deck space compared to single-hulled boats.