With an aim to make Chilika lake a zero-emission zone, the State Government has decided to introduce solar powered boats in the lake soon.

For the purpose, the Odisha Renewable Energy Development Agency (OREDA) has invited e-tender for design, engineering, manufacturing, supply, transportation, deployment of 20-seater solar electric boats, with zero emission including comprehensive maintenance for two years at various places of Chilika.

A biodiversity site, Chilika is blessed with a distinct assemblage of oceanic and fresh water. Being a blue lake lagoon, it is home to many migratory birds during the winter season and some endangered species of dolphins.

The lake has extremely rich fishery resources and helps in generating instant employment and livelihoods to many fishers and non-fishers (dependent on tourism) residing in and around it. Therefore, boat motorisation has resulted in climate vulnerability.

To address the climate challenge and reduce the noise, water, and air pollution, the Government of Odisha wants to transit the water mobility sector in Chilika to clean mobility solutions.

The Government has decided to replace the mechanised boats in use in rivers, lakes, sea and water bodies with solar powered boats for transportation of passengers as well as goods. It aims at reducing environmental pollution and transport cost of water communication, sources said.

It is expected to bring down the transport cost of mechanised boats by Rs 7 lakh per annum. If the pilot project becomes successful, it will be extended to other waterways in the State, the sources informed.

The successful bidder will have to provide the shore charging station/infrastructure for charging of boats near the jetty (fishing boats) and harbours (OTDC and CDA’s tourism boats) as per norms set for the EV charging.

Further, the successful bidder will have to ensure that the module mounting structures must be designed to be completely non-invasive (without any grouting/ chipping) on the rooftop space.

The boats will have an adequate protection system as per the requirement of the site by taking lightning, wind speed, rainy season, other climatic conditions, sudden surges in voltage and current, etc.