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Varanasi Ganga Boats Go Electric, Cut Costs 80%
24 Jul
Summary
- Five electric boats now navigate the Ganga in Varanasi.
- E-boats offer up to 80% lower operating costs for boatmen.
- Pilot project aims for wider implementation across river cities.
Five boats have been transformed into modern e-boats, beginning service on the Ganga River in Varanasi. This initiative, part of the 'Electric Boat Conversion Pilot Project,' was launched by the Varanasi Development Authority in partnership with GAIL (India) Limited.
These electric boats are equipped with GPS tracking for navigation between Assi Ghat and Namo Ghat. Mayor Ashok Kumar Tiwari inaugurated the first five e-boats, highlighting their reduced operating costs of up to 80% compared to diesel-powered vessels. This transition promises quieter, safer, and more environmentally friendly journeys for passengers.
The pilot project's first phase involves converting a total of 20 boats. If successful, the initiative is planned for large-scale implementation, potentially establishing Varanasi as a model for clean water transport in other Indian river cities. Boatmen involved in the conversion were recognized for their contribution to reducing pollution and increasing their income.
Each e-boat features a 15 kW electric motor, a 20 kWh lithium battery, an EV charger, a digital display, and GPS. Charging infrastructure has been established at the ghats, enabling the boats to complete multiple round trips on a single charge.
