Kolkata-based shipbuilder Garden Reach Shipbuilders & Engineers Ltd (GRSE) signed a ₹226.18 crore (excluding GST) agreement with the West Bengal Transport Department on November 19. The project involves designing, constructing, operating, and maintaining 13 hybrid electric ferries under the West Bengal Inland Water Transport, Logistics, and Spatial Development Project (WBIWTLSDP).
The ferries will be operated by the West Bengal Transport Infrastructure Development Corporation Ltd (WBTIDCL) on the River Hooghly. With hybrid electric propulsion systems powered by batteries and diesel generators, the vessels will offer operational flexibility while significantly reducing pollution.
The project includes six twin-deck ferries, each with a passenger capacity of 200 and featuring an air-conditioned main deck. These vessels measure 30 meters in length, 8–10 meters in width, and can reach speeds of up to 12 knots, with a total cost of ₹126.41 crore (excluding GST). Additionally, seven single-deck ferries, designed to carry 100 passengers each, will be 25 meters long, 8 meters wide, and capable of reaching a maximum speed of 9 knots. The estimated cost for these ferries is ₹99.77 crore (excluding GST).
Advanced Features
The vessels will feature a catamaran hull design made from aluminium and Fiber Reinforced Polymer (FRP) for enhanced durability and performance. Hybrid systems will enable seamless transitions between diesel and battery power, ensuring safety and efficiency under varying conditions.
Background
This initiative follows the successful prototype launch of a zero-emission ferry, ‘Dheu,’ designed and developed by GRSE earlier this year. The prototype, launched in January 2024 and accepted in March 2024, set the foundation for this large-scale project.
Operational Scope
The ferries will serve passengers along the River Hooghly, part of National Waterway-1, within the Kolkata Metropolitan Area (KMA). The route spans from Triveni in the north to Diamond Harbour in the south, ensuring reliable, all-weather connectivity. This project aligns with West Bengal’s vision to modernize its inland water transport infrastructure while adopting sustainable technologies for cleaner and more efficient operations.
Established in 1884, it is one of the leading defense public sector undertakings under the Ministry of Defence. GRSE has a long-standing reputation for building a wide range of naval and commercial vessels, including warships, patrol vessels, and corvettes, for the Indian Navy and Coast Guard.
The company is also involved in the design and construction of engineering products and services for various industries. Known for its state-of-the-art infrastructure and expertise in shipbuilding, GRSE plays a vital role in strengthening India’s maritime defense capabilities. Its commitment to innovation and indigenization aligns with the country’s goal of self-reliance in defense manufacturing under the ‘Make in India’ initiative.
