Union Minister Sarbananda Sonowal flagged off India’s first indigenous hydrogen fuel-cell vessel in Varanasi. The event marked a major milestone for India’s clean inland water transport. The ceremony took place at Namo Ghat on Thursday. The Ports, Shipping and Waterways Minister inaugurated the vessel’s commercial operations during the event.
The hydrogen-powered vessel represents India’s progress in green maritime technology. The government aims to promote sustainable transport across inland waterways. Officials view this development as a crucial step towards cleaner mobility solutions. The vessel demonstrates India’s growing capability to engineer advanced and eco-friendly systems.
Sonowal highlighted the significance of the achievement. He said the vessel reflects India’s confidence in hydrogen technology. He also noted India’s commitment to domestic innovation in the clean energy space. The minister described the moment as a symbol of national progress. He believes the project strengthens India’s leadership in sustainable maritime initiatives.
India now joins a select group of countries operating hydrogen-powered vessels. The list includes China, Norway, the Netherlands and Japan. Sonowal said the achievement proves India’s readiness for future transport technologies. He credited Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s leadership for the sector’s advancement. The minister said inland waterways now play a greater role in India’s development journey.
Several public representatives attended the ceremony in Varanasi. Uttar Pradesh Minister of State for Transport Dayashankar Singh was present. Minister of State for Ayush and Food Safety Dayashankar Mishra also attended. Minister of State for Stamp and Court Fees Ravindra Jaiswal joined the event as well. Their presence reflected the state government’s support for green mobility projects.
The vessel’s launch aligns with the ongoing modernisation of India’s inland waterways. The government aims to create cleaner and more efficient transport networks. Authorities expect hydrogen-powered systems to reduce emissions along major river routes. The project supports India’s broader transition towards sustainable energy and advanced technologies.
Officials say the initiative will strengthen connectivity and enhance public convenience. The government wants to reduce congestion on land-based transport systems. Inland waterways offer an alternative mobility corridor with lower emissions. The hydrogen vessel shows how innovation can support long-term transport goals. The project may also encourage new investments in clean maritime solutions.
The government sees strong potential for hydrogen technology in the maritime sector. The vessel’s operational performance will guide future deployments along key waterways. Engineers will study efficiency, safety and emission benefits during the initial phase. The successful launch sets the stage for wider adoption of hydrogen systems. The initiative reflects India’s vision for greener and more resilient transport infrastructure.
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