On February 28 (Wednesday), Prime Minister Narendra Modi launched India’s first indigenously constructed hydrogen fuel cell ferry boat virtually.
The yacht was built at the Cochin Shipyard. The pilot vessel is a 24-metre catamaran with a passenger capacity of 50 and completely air-conditioned area. According to a press release from Cochin Shipyard Limited (CSL), it would make urban mobility more convenient.
The vessel was flagged off during a ceremony in Thoothukudi, Tamil Nadu, to lay the groundwork for a ₹17,300-crore project there. These included the laying of the foundation stone for the outer port at the V.O. Chidambaranar Port, the dedication of 75 lighthouses throughout ten states and union territories, and the dedication of numerous rail and road network projects, according to a news statement from the news Information Bureau (PIB).
Modi’s statement on the occassion
Mr. Modi stated that the hydrogen cell-powered inland canal vessel under the Harit Nauka programme is a gift from the people of Tamil Nadu to Kashi. He stated that he observed the zeal and devotion of the Tamil Nadu people at Kashi Tamil Sangamam. The vessel developed at CSL is a pioneering step towards embracing renewable energy solutions and aligning with the country’s net-zero ambitions, he stated.
The V.O.Chidambaranar Port is also the country’s first Green Hydrogen Hub Port, including initiatives such as a desalination plant, hydrogen generation, and bunkering facilities. “Tamil Nadu will go a long way with regard to the alternatives that the world is exploring today”, the prime minister remarked.
Mr. Modi stated that electrification and doubling of train lines will boost accessibility between South Tamil Nadu & Kerala while also reducing congestion in the Tirunelveli and Nagercoil sectors.
According to CSL, the hydrogen fuel vessel is a home-grown technology that can be copied in other parts of the country for urban mobility applications.
For the future
By using hydrogen fuel cell technology in the marine industry, India hopes to gain a worldwide competitive edge while also furthering its sustainable energy goals of attaining net zero emissions.
The adoption of fuel cell-powered boats not only helps to mitigate the implications of global warming, but also fits with the aims of the Government of India’s National Green Hydrogen Mission.
