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Prime Minister has unveiled India’s maiden indigenous hydrogen fuel cell ferry, a groundbreaking achievement in the country’s maritime sector.

About Harit Nauka Initiative

In January 2024, the Shipping Ministry unveiled the guidelines for inland vessels.
As per the guidelines, all states have to make efforts to use green fuels for 50 per cent of inland waterways-based passenger fleets in the next one decade, and 100 per cent by 2045.
This is to reduce greenhouse gas emissions as per the Maritime Amrit Kaal Vision 2047.

Design: The 24-meter-long catamaran ferry accommodates up to 50 passengers in its air-conditioned area, constructed with high-quality fiberglass reinforced plastic.
Manufacture: Manufactured by Cochin Shipyard Limited (CSL), the vessel will revolutionize water transportation and contribute to India’s green mobility initiatives.
Propulsion: Powered by a 50-kW Proton-Exchange Membrane (PEM) fuel cell and Lithium-Ion Phosphate batteries, the vessel operates with zero emissions and minimal noise, offering enhanced energy efficiency.
Energy Source: Hydrogen fuel, stored in five cylinders onboard, fuels the vessel’s propulsion system, supplemented by a 3-kW solar panel for additional energy generation.

Hydrogen Fuel Cells: The vessel utilizes hydrogen fuel cells to generate electricity by harnessing the chemical energy of hydrogen, emitting only pure water as a byproduct.
Continuous Operation: Unlike conventional batteries, hydrogen fuel cells do not require recharging, ensuring continuous operation with uninterrupted fuel and oxygen supply.

Collaborative Effort: Cochin Shipyard Limited spearheaded the vessel’s construction, incorporating indigenous hydrogen fuel cell systems developed by KPIT Technologies and Council of Scientific and Industrial Research Labs.
Early Mover Advantage: India’s pioneering hydrogen fuel cell ferry underscores the nation’s commitment to green technology and positions it as a frontrunner in maritime sustainability.