The Ministry of Ports, Shipping & Waterways today achieved a landmark breakthrough in sustainable maritime mobility with the commencement of commercial operations of India’s first indigenously developed hydrogen fuel cell passenger vessel in Varanasi. Union Minister Sarbananda Sonowal officially flagged off the vessel’s maiden run, marking a pivotal step in the nation’s transition toward clean and future-ready inland water transport.
Designed as a 24-meter catamaran for urban transit, the boat can carry 50 passengers in an air-conditioned cabin and runs at a service speed of 6.5 knots. Its hybrid energy system combines hydrogen fuel cells, batteries and solar power, enabling up to eight hours of operation on a single hydrogen fill. The vessel is certified by the Indian Register of Shipping.
Designed and built through a collaborative effort between leading Indian research institutions and maritime engineering partners under the Maritime India Vision 2030 framework, the vessel showcases India’s growing technological prowess in green hydrogen and advanced propulsion systems. The innovation is expected to significantly reduce carbon emissions, lower operational costs, and set new benchmarks for efficiency and environmental stewardship in the inland waterways sector.
Speaking at the launch, the Minister noted that the project exemplifies the government’s commitment to innovative, eco-friendly solutions that align with India’s net-zero ambitions, while also reinforcing Varanasi’s emergence as a key hub for modern river-based transport infrastructure.
The introduction of hydrogen-powered passenger services is anticipated to catalyse further investments, accelerate the adoption of clean energy technologies, and position India as a global leader in sustainable shipbuilding and green mobility.