SRINAGAR: Varanasi has rolled out India’s first hydrogen-powered water taxi, marking a significant step towards cleaner and more sustainable transport. The initiative adds a new milestone to the country’s efforts to promote green mobility while enhancing river-based travel in the heritage city.
The service was inaugurated on Thursday, December 11, at Namo Ghat by Union Minister for Ports, Shipping and Waterways Sarbananda Sonowal, who flagged off the zero-emission vessel designed to offer a smooth and eco-friendly journey along the Ganga. The hydrogen-powered water taxi will operate between Namo Ghat and Ravidas Ghat, providing residents and tourists with a cleaner alternative to conventional boats.
Powered by an advanced hydrogen–electric hybrid engine, the water taxi produces no smoke or noise. Officials said the service will initially operate on the Namo Ghat–Ravidas Ghat stretch, with plans to extend it to Asi Ghat and Markandeya Mahadev Ghat at a later stage.
Built with passenger comfort and safety in mind, the 50-seater vessel is equipped with modern facilities such as CCTV cameras, bio-toilets and vegetarian refreshments, making it suitable for pilgrims as well as tourists. The fare has been fixed at Rs 500 per person for a round trip, a pricing officials believe will attract both daily commuters and visitors, according to Lokmat Times.
The service will run from early morning until evening, with departures scheduled roughly every two hours. Hydrogen fuel for the water taxi will be supplied by a Bengaluru-based private company, and refuelling infrastructure has been established at key ghats to support operations.
Authorities hope the initiative will boost tourism in Varanasi while easing pressure on city roads by encouraging commuters to use the river as a sustainable transport corridor.
