India just launched its 1st hydrogen-powered ferry in Varanasi
India's first homegrown hydrogen fuel-cell ferry is now cruising the Ganga from Namo Ghat, Varanasi.
Built by Cochin Shipyard and powered by KPIT Technologies, this ₹18 crore project can carry 50 people in air-conditioned comfort.
It's all part of the Harit Nauka initiative to make river transport cleaner and greener.
What makes this ferry special?
The 24-meter catamaran runs on hydrogen fuel cells that turn hydrogen and oxygen into electricity—so the only thing it leaves behind is water and heat.
With five cylinders holding 40kg of hydrogen, it glides quietly for eight hours at up to 6.5 knots.
There's even a solar panel for extra power, plus fewer moving parts mean less maintenance and lower emissions along the Kashi-Prayagraj route.
Why does this matter?
Hydrogen fuel cells are a big deal because they produce zero greenhouse gases—just clean energy.
This launch puts India alongside countries like Japan and Norway in adopting green tech for waterways.
It's a solid move toward cutting carbon emissions from river transport, showing how innovation can help protect our environment.