In a bid to enhance tourism and promote sustainable transport, the Delhi government is planning to launch a cruise service on the Yamuna River, running between Sonia Vihar and Jagatpur. Officials confirmed the development on Saturday, highlighting its potential to rejuvenate the river while boosting tourism.
The project aims to develop a six-kilometer stretch of the Yamuna—from the Wazirabad barrage (Sonia Vihar) to Jagatpur (Shani temple)—for cruise operations. To facilitate this, the Delhi Tourism and Transport Development Corporation (DTTDC) has issued a request for quotation (RFQ) to engage an operator for two solar or electric battery-powered cruises.
According to the proposal, the initiative will be an environment-friendly and sustainable water transport project, executed in collaboration with multiple agencies, including the Inland Waterways Authority of India (IWAI), Delhi Development Authority (DDA), Delhi Jal Board (DJB), and the irrigation and flood control department.
The cruise service will operate on a round trip of seven to eight kilometers, starting and ending at Sonia Vihar. Floating jetties, navigational aids, and charging infrastructure will be provided to support the operation. The selected operator will initially deploy two electric-solar hybrid boats, each accommodating 20-30 passengers, with a speed of five to seven knots.
To ensure passenger safety and comfort, the boats will feature inboard bio-toilets with zero discharge, an announcement system, and safety jackets. Additionally, they will be air-conditioned and either leased or owned, with an age limit of no more than two years. The operator must ensure at least four trips per day.
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Officials believe this initiative will provide a safe, reliable, and sustainable tourism experience while complementing the broader efforts to restore the Yamuna’s ecological health.
(With inputs from PTI)
