Plying proudly in Kerala’s backwaters is India’s first solar-powered ferry. The ferry, named Aditya, has saved 1 lakh litres of diesel, owing to its zero usage of fossil fuels. Built by NavAlt Boats, this solar-powered ferry recently won global laurels, when it was awarded the Gustave Trouvé award for Excellence in Electric Boats and Boating on July 26.
Solar-Powered Ferry Runs On Just ₹180 A Day
Striking off air, noise and water pollution, the solar-powered ferry has saved 1 lakh litres of diesel, worth ₹75 lakh. The ferry derives about 60 per cent of its energy from a solar panel spread over 1,500 sq ft, and the remaining is drawn from an electricity grid. Another striking thing about the ferry is its low operational cost. Where the energy cost of other diesel-run ferries is about ₹8,000 a day, Aditya’s energy cost is a minimal ₹180 (approx.). Aditya takes in up to 75 passengers and makes 22 trips in a day, from Vaikkom to Thavanakkadavu in Alappuzha’s backwaters.
Also Read: Delhi Metro Is All Set To Run 100% On Solar Power
Odisha Plans To Introduce Inland Cruise Tourism
Meanwhile, the government of Odisha had planned on organising day cruises along five water bodies in June. The service is to initially touch upon Chilika Lake, Bhitarkanika, Satkosia gorge, Hirakud, and Mahanadi. However, several environmental activists are criticising this plan owing to its hazardous implications.
Also Read: Over 2 Crore Olive Ridley Hatchlings Crawl Into Sea At Odisha Beach
Konark Sun Temple To Run On Solar Power
Meanwhile, earlier in May, the Indian government had announced plans to completely solarize the town of Konark. The entire town, including the Sun Temple, is all set to run on a 10 MW grid-connected solar project. The cost of the project, estimated at ₹25 crore, will be borne by the Central Government.
Also Read: A 500-Year-Old Temple Resurfaces In Odisha
Carbon emissions have gone up all over the world, and pose a severe threat to ecosystems everywhere. However, new innovations and the usage of alternate energy are bound to brighten up the future of public transport.