The Inaugural Hydrogen Fuel Cell Ferry of India
The Inaugural Hydrogen Fuel Cell Ferry of India
On February 29th, 2024, Prime Minister Narendra Modi
inaugurated India’s inaugural indigenous hydrogen fuel cell ferry virtually at
Kochi Harbor in Kerala, signifying a significant leap in sustainable
transportation within the nation
Vessel Overview
Dubbed ‘Suchetha’, the 24-meter catamaran ferry employs an
electric propulsion mechanism powered by hydrogen fuel cells. Designed to
accommodate 50 passengers comfortably, it boasts amenities such as air
conditioning and ergonomic seating. The fuel cells onboard generate power
through the chemical reaction of hydrogen and oxygen, leaving behind only water
and heat as byproducts.
Cochin Shipyard Limited
(CSL) officials note that the ferry features a shallow draft of 1 meter,
enabling smooth navigation through Kochi’s intricate backwaters. Its
lightweight yet sturdy hull facilitates a top speed of 12 knots while ensuring
safety through fire detection systems and damage stability measures.
Indigenous Technological Advancements
The development of Suchetha’s fuel cells and electric motors
is a part of the Kochi International Water
metro project, a collaborative effort led by CSL alongside manufacturers
like L&T and the Indian Register of Shipping. This initiative aligns with
the central government’s vision of "Aatmanirbhar Bharat"
(self-reliant India).
During the inauguration, PM Modi hailed the ferry as a
testament to India's capability to harness technology for sustainable
transportation solutions. He emphasized the expansion of green energy-driven
public transport in both terrestrial and aquatic urban landscapes.
PM Modi also commended the collaborative efforts of various
governmental bodies including the Inland Waterways Authority of India, Ministry
of Ports, Shipping and Waterways, Ministry of Environment and Forests, the
Kerala government, and other stakeholders.
Advantages
Experts anticipate that Suchetha, as India’s inaugural
hydrogen-powered vessel, will spearhead cleaner ferry transit across the
nation’s extensive canal networks. Particularly in congested urban areas, the
emission-free ferry promises to alleviate traffic congestion and mitigate noise
and air pollution.
Furthermore, the project promises to create employment
opportunities for skilled professionals and foster domestic expertise in
sustainable marine technologies. Officials foresee achieving cost parity with
conventional ferries in the foreseeable future through localized parts
manufacturing.
Future Outlook
Encouraged by the success of Suchetha, Cochin Shipyard has
committed to constructing an additional 7 hydrogen fuel cell boats with varying
passenger capacities. The company also aims to explore opportunities in the
international market for clean marine technologies.
In his address, PM Modi articulated India’s ambition to replicate low-cost, zero-emission ferry systems in cities nation
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