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National Hydrogen Ship is a hydrogen-powered passenger vessel manufactured using indigenous Indian technology. It was inaugurated on December 11, 2025, by the Union Minister for Ports, Shipping, and Waterways, Sarbananda Sonowal, during a ceremony held at the Namo Ghat in Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh.[1] The vessel will operate for passenger transport between Namo Ghat and Lalita Ghat.[2]
Objectives
The primary objectives behind the creation of this ship are to prioritize green energy usage, enhance inter-city connectivity, and provide public convenience while reducing both travel time and costs.
Significance
This marks the first time in the country that a hydrogen-powered ship service has been launched. This project not only showcases India's technological advancement but is also an eco-friendly green energy initiative.
Environmental Impact
Since it utilizes hydrogen fuel instead of diesel, its only emission is water vapor.
National Vision
As an extension of the National Green Hydrogen Mission, it aims to make India a global hub for green hydrogen production by 2030 and reduce carbon emissions in maritime transport.
Waterway Development
It highlights the importance of inland waterways in India's overall growth.
Construction and Funding
The vessel was constructed at the Cochin Shipyard under the Harit Nauka (Green Boat) initiative of the Inland Waterways Authority of India (IWAI).[3] The total Cost of the project was ₹17.5 crore. The Union Ministry of Ports, Shipping, and Waterways provided 75% of the total cost.[4] Operating boats and ships using hydrogen fuel is part of the Central Government's long-term plan to modernize inland waterway transport.
Key Features of the project
- India has become the fifth country in the world—after China, Norway, the Netherlands, and Japan—to operate ships using hydrogen fuel.
- It is a 24-meter long catamaran type vessel.
- It operates on the National Waterway 1 (NW-1) route along the Ganges River.
- A single hydrogen refueling allows the ship to operate for approximately 8 hours.
- The vessel has a seating capacity for 50 passengers.
References
- ↑ "India embarks on indigenous green hydrogen shipbuilding mission". Retrieved 4 January 2026.
- ↑ "India's first indigenous hydrogen fuel cell passenger vessel begins commercial operations in Varanasi". ddnews.gov.in. Retrieved 2026-01-04.
- ↑ "PM Modi launches hydrogen-powered ferry: features, significance". The Indian Express. 2024-03-01. Retrieved 2026-01-03.
- ↑ "India's First Indigenous Hydrogen Fuel Cell Passenger Vessel Begins Commercial Service in Varanasi; Sarbananda Sonowal Flags Off Maiden Run Maiden". Retrieved 4 January 2026.