Operations Halted for India’s First Hydrogen-Powered Luxury Cruise After Collision in Ganga

Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh: Just six days after the inauguration of India’s first hydrogen-engine luxury cruise, operations have been halted following a collision with a local boat on the Ganga. The cruise, inaugurated by Union Minister Sarvanand Sonwal on December 11, suffered significant damage during the incident.

Cruise Company Alleges Deliberate Collision

The company operating the cruise has lodged a complaint with Adampur police, alleging that a local boat operator intentionally rammed into the vessel. CCTV footage from the cruise, which captured the collision, has been submitted to the authorities.

Details of the Incident

The hydrogen-powered cruise, operated by a private agency under the Indian Waterways initiative, runs between Namo Ghat and Ravidas Ghat. According to Vibhutipati Tiwari, head of the operating agency, the cruise was returning from Ramnagar Port with fuel around 3 PM when the local boat collided with it. The impact caused significant damage to a section of the cruise’s fuel tank, forcing the suspension of operations.

Police Investigate Local Boat Operator

Adampur police have confirmed receiving the complaint and are examining the CCTV footage to identify the boat involved. FIR registration is underway, and investigators are working to determine the circumstances of the collision. The matter highlights rising tensions between the cruise operators and local boatmen, and authorities are monitoring the situation closely.

Safety and Environmental Significance

The hydrogen-engine cruise was launched as a pioneering step toward eco-friendly water transport in India. The collision and subsequent operational halt have raised concerns over the safety and coordination between modern watercraft and traditional local boats operating on the Ganga.