India’s First Indigenous Hydrogen Fuel Cell Passenger Vessel

A milestone in green inland transport

India’s First Indigenous Hydrogen Fuel Cell Passenger Vessel: India marked a significant step in clean mobility with the launch of its first indigenous hydrogen fuel cell passenger vessel in Varanasi in December 2025.
The vessel operates using a hydrogen fuel-cell system for marine use, signalling India’s push towards low-emission inland waterways.

This development aligns with national goals of reducing fossil fuel dependence and promoting green hydrogen-based solutions in transport sectors beyond roads and railways.

Static GK fact: India has an inland waterways network of over 20,000 km, offering high potential for low-carbon transport solutions.

What makes the vessel indigenous

The vessel is powered by a fully indigenous Low Temperature Proton Exchange Membrane (LT-PEM) fuel cell.
Both the fuel cell stack and the integration system are developed within India, reducing reliance on imported clean-energy technologies.

LT-PEM fuel cells are particularly suited for passenger transport due to their compact size, high efficiency, and rapid operational readiness.

Proton Exchange Membrane fuel cell technology

A Proton Exchange Membrane Fuel Cell (PEMFC) generates electricity directly from hydrogen without combustion.
It works on an electrochemical reaction, ensuring clean energy conversion.

Hydrogen enters the anode, where a catalyst splits it into protons (H⁺) and electrons (e⁻).
The membrane allows only protons to pass through, while electrons move through an external circuit, producing electricity.

At the cathode, protons, electrons, and oxygen from air combine to form water and a small amount of heat as by-products.

Static GK Tip: PEM fuel cells typically operate below 80°C, which classifies them as low-temperature fuel cells.

Key advantages of PEM fuel cells in marine transport

The most significant advantage is zero emissions, as only water is released during operation.
This makes the vessel ideal for environmentally sensitive river ecosystems like the Ganga basin.

PEM fuel cells deliver high power density, allowing compact design with lower weight and volume compared to other fuel cell types.
Their quick start-up capability suits daily passenger services requiring frequent operations.

Another major benefit is quiet operation due to the absence of moving mechanical parts.
This ensures smoother rides and reduced noise pollution in urban riverfront areas.

Efficiency and performance benefits

PEM fuel cells convert hydrogen directly into electricity, making them more efficient than internal combustion engines.
Energy losses associated with heat and friction are significantly reduced.

This efficiency enhances fuel economy and extends operational range, which is crucial for inland water passenger vessels.

Static GK fact: Fuel cell-based systems can achieve efficiencies of 50–60%, higher than most conventional engines.

Challenges associated with PEM fuel cells

One major challenge is the high cost of materials, especially precious-metal catalysts like platinum.
These materials increase initial capital costs.

Another issue is the availability of clean hydrogen, as hydrogen production can be energy-intensive if derived from fossil fuels.
Sustainable hydrogen generation remains a key policy and infrastructure challenge.

Durability is also a concern, as PEM membranes degrade over time, particularly under high operational stress and variable humidity conditions.

Strategic importance for India

The vessel represents India’s growing focus on maritime decarbonisation and clean inland navigation.
It also supports the broader National Green Hydrogen Mission by creating demand in non-traditional sectors.

Static GK Tip: Inland waterways consume significantly less energy per tonne-km compared to road transport.

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