Hydrogen Hits the Ganga: India Launches Its First Clean Water Taxi Service in Varanasi

India has entered a new era of sustainable mobility with the launch of its first hydrogen-powered clean water taxi service on the Ganga River in Varanasi. The historic city, known for its sacred ghats and spiritual legacy, has now become a symbol of innovation as the government pushes toward cleaner, greener modes of transportation. The service was inaugurated at Namo Ghat by Union Minister for Ports, Shipping and Waterways, Sarbananda Sonowal, marking a milestone in India’s broader vision of eco-friendly inland water transport.

India’s first indigenously developed hydrogen fuel cell ferry, manufactured by Cochin Shipyard Limited (CSL), will be deployed for service at Varanasi in Uttar Pradesh. (X) | Firstpost

A Revolutionary Step in Inland Water Transport

The launch represents the country’s first deployment of a fully indigenous hydrogen fuel-cell-powered passenger vessel. Developed by the Inland Waterways Authority of India in collaboration with Cochin Shipyard Limited, the vessel operates on a low-temperature proton exchange membrane hydrogen fuel-cell system. This cutting-edge technology produces electricity without combustion, resulting in zero emissions and contributing to India’s commitment to sustainable energy.

Designed as a hybrid model that integrates hydrogen fuel cells, battery power, and solar assistance, the water taxi can operate for nearly eight hours on a single hydrogen refill. Its 24-metre structure features an air-conditioned cabin with a capacity of around 50 passengers, along with modern amenities such as CCTV systems and advanced navigation tools. The vessel currently runs between Namo Ghat and Ravidas Ghat, with plans for route expansion as demand rises.

A Sustainable Boost to Tourism and Urban Mobility

Varanasi’s vibrant riverfront stands to benefit significantly from this new clean-energy transport system. The hydrogen-powered water taxi produces no noise or smoke, offering passengers a peaceful and environmentally friendly ride along one of India’s most iconic waterways. For a city that draws millions of tourists annually, this initiative blends tradition with modernity, enhancing the visitor experience while protecting the ecological health of the Ganga.

Urban planners and government officials believe the service will inspire similar projects in other riverine cities. As part of India’s Maritime India Vision 2030 and the Maritime Amrit Kaal Vision 2047, the initiative demonstrates the government’s commitment to reducing carbon emissions and embracing next-generation mobility solutions. It also positions India among a select group of countries—such as Norway, Japan, and the Netherlands—that are pioneering hydrogen-based maritime transport.

Hydrogen Technology Gains Momentum in India

The launch aligns with India’s growing focus on green hydrogen as a cornerstone of its clean energy strategy. Uttar Pradesh recently announced the establishment of a Green Hydrogen Centre of Excellence, led by IIT-BHU and MMMUT Gorakhpur, dedicated to research, innovation, and skill development in hydrogen technologies. This growing ecosystem is expected to accelerate the adoption of hydrogen across transportation, industry, and energy sectors.

Hydrogen is increasingly recognised as a transformative fuel for sectors that are difficult to electrify. By introducing it into public transport—especially water-based mobility—India is signalling its readiness to adopt futuristic solutions that reduce pollution while fostering indigenous technological development.

The MGMM Outlook

The launch of India’s first hydrogen-powered water taxi on the Ganga marks an important transition toward clean mobility, reinforcing the country’s ambition to integrate sustainable technologies into everyday transportation. The initiative in Varanasi not only modernises river transport but also demonstrates how indigenous innovation—through hydrogen fuel cells, battery systems, and solar support—can redefine public mobility. The quiet, emission-free vessel running between Namo Ghat and Ravidas Ghat shows how technology can coexist with heritage, offering a cleaner experience for both residents and millions of pilgrims visiting the sacred city.

This development aligns naturally with India’s broader push toward green hydrogen adoption, supported by new research hubs such as the Green Hydrogen Centre of Excellence in Uttar Pradesh. The move strengthens confidence in hydrogen as a viable solution for sectors that cannot rely solely on electrification. By deploying such technology on one of the country’s most iconic rivers, the project signals a strong intent to scale sustainable transport across urban and river-based routes nationwide. It blends ecological responsibility with technological progress and sets a template for future clean-mobility reforms across India.

(Sources: Firstpost, News18, Times of India)