Bengal to Launch India's First NG Electric Ferry Vessel

Baby Chakraborty, KalimNews, January 11, 2025, Kolkata: Marking a milestone in sustainable transport, Bengal is set to unveil the country's first next-generation (NG) electric ferry vessel. Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee will formally inaugurate this cutting-edge e-vessel at a ceremony at Millennium Park. The initiative aligns with the state government’s commitment to promoting eco-friendly transportation.

Transport Minister Snehashis Chakraborty emphasized the environmental benefits of the electric-powered vessel, stating, "This e-vessel will play a significant role in reducing pollution. It will provide passengers with enhanced safety and greater comfort." The innovative vessel, built by the renowned Garden Reach Shipbuilders and Engineers (GRSE), features modern design and facilities aimed at making river transport more sustainable and passenger-friendly.

The ferry has separate air-conditioned (AC) and non-air-conditioned (non-AC) sections. The AC section can accommodate 30 passengers, while the non-AC section has a capacity of 62. The vessel is designed to ply the route from Millennium Park to Dakshineswar via Belur Math, offering passengers a comfortable and efficient way to navigate the Hooghly River.

An official from the Transport Department highlighted the significant efficiency and cost-effectiveness of the vessel, explaining, "Traditional launches with a 150-passenger capacity consume 10 liters of diesel per hour. In contrast, this electric battery-powered ferry can operate continuously for up to two hours or cover 30 kilometers on a single charge." The vessel’s advanced electric propulsion system promises not only lower operational costs but also reduced carbon emissions, setting a benchmark for future initiatives.

The launch of this electric ferry vessel is a testament to Bengal's leadership in adopting green technologies in public transport. It symbolizes a crucial step toward cleaner and more sustainable urban mobility, benefiting both the environment and the passengers who depend on the state’s extensive water transport network.