changeadminIndia marked a significant step in its green maritime push it launching the commercial operation of its first fully indigenous hydrogen-fuel-cell passenger vessel in Varanasi.
The vessel is the first in India to demonstrate hydrogen fuel-cell propulsion at sea and features fully indigenous technology. It operates on a low-temperature proton Exchange Membrane fuel cell system that converts stored hydrogen into electricity, releasing only water as a byproduct.
India’s Minister for Ports, Shipping and Waterways (MoPSW), Sarbananda Sonowal, flagged off the hydrogen-fuel-cell passenger vessel at Namo Ghat in Varanasi on 11th December 2025.
Speaking on the occasion, the Minister Sarbananda Sonowal said, “Under the dynamic and visionary leadership of Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi ji, India is witnessing a transformative shift toward clean, sustainable and self-reliant transportation systems. The launch of our first indigenous hydrogen fuel cell vessel is a shining example of the Prime Minister’s commitment to Make in India and the transition to green mobility across all sectors. This milestone also strengthens the wider mission of rejuvenating and preserving our sacred Ganga. As we advance cleaner technologies on our waterways, we are not only promoting innovation but also ensuring that development goes hand in hand with ecological responsibility. Today’s achievement reflects the Prime Minister’s unwavering resolve to build a greener, more prosperous maritime future for our nation.”
Owned by the Inland Waterways Authority of India (IWAI), the vessel was built by Cochin Shipyard Ltd (CSL). The ship enters service following the completion of trial operations.
The rollout aligns with the government’s commitment to reach net-zero emissions by 2070 and supports MoPSW’s efforts to advance clean, sustainable fuels across India’s inland waterways.
Over recent years, the Government of India and the Inland Waterways Authority of India (IWAI) have expanded navigation channels, introduced modern terminals, and operationalised new passenger and cargo routes to strengthen water-based communication and reduce logistics costs.
In 2023, the government launched the first battery-powered electric boats in Kochi, India’s coastal town. The electric boats, also manufactured by Cochin Shipyard Limited, are designed to navigate narrow waterways while maintaining a decent speed.
These efforts align with long-term strategic frameworks, including the Maritime India Vision 2030 (MIV 2030) and Maritime Amrit Kaal Vision 2047 (MAKV 2047), which outline the roadmap for greener transport, innovative infrastructure, and increased use of alternative fuels on inland waterways.
Adding further, Sarbananda Sonowal said, “The successful deployment of this hydrogen fuel cell vessel reflects the deep commitment of our ministry to accelerate India’s transition toward clean and sustainable waterways. I congratulate Cochin Shipyard Ltd. on delivering this pioneering vessel and the Inland Waterways Authority of India on taking it into commercial service following rigorous trials. This achievement is a testament to our resolve to meet India’s net-zero targets by 2070 and to integrate cutting-edge green technologies across the inland water transport sector. Guided by Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi ji’s transformative Maritime India Vision (MIV) 2030 and the long-term roadmap of Maritime Amrit Kaal Vision (MAKV) 2047, we are steadily shaping a modern, energy-efficient and environmentally responsible maritime ecosystem for the country.”
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.
To operationalise the pilot vessel FCV Pilot-01, IWAI, Cochin Shipyard Ltd. and Inland and Coastal Shipping Ltd. have signed a tripartite agreement outlining technical support, operations and oversight. The deal includes financial terms, safety procedures, monitoring mechanisms and provisions for periodic inspections during the pilot phase.
The hydrogen fuel cell vessel introduced in Varanasi offers several key benefits to urban water transport, including noise-free travel for commuters and pilgrims, zero smoke and zero pollution, with only water as emissions, and reduced road congestion through faster mobility on waterways.
It is also expected to boost local tourism and create job opportunities while positioning Varanasi as one of the world’s first cities to adopt hydrogen-powered passenger transport.
The fully air-conditioned 50-seater vessel can operate for up to eight hours on stored hydrogen, runs at 7 to 9 knots, and is powered entirely by indigenous, eco-friendly technology that ensures safe and efficient operations.
The maiden vessel run — a five-kilometre trip from Namo Ghat to Lalita Ghat — carried an entourage of ministers and senior officials, signalling the start of commercial operations for a hydrogen-fuel-powered passenger vessel on the Ganga (National Waterway 1).
Following the introduction of hybrid-electric catamarans, the deployment of a hydrogen fuel-cell vessel reinforces IWAI’s long-term plan to modernise and decarbonise the country’s inland water transport network.
The launch of commercial service for the hydrogen fuel cell vessel at Namo Ghat positions Varanasi at the forefront of India’s green waterways initiative. It sets the tone for the next chapter of sustainable transport on rivers and inland routes.
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