Sonowal inaugurates Yamuna cruise service in Delhi to boost river tourism

Union Minister for Ports, Shipping and Waterways Sarbananda Sonowal on Tuesday inaugurated a cruise service on the Yamuna at Sonia Vihar.

The project is being developed to promote river-based tourism along the Yamuna stretch upstream of the Wazirabad barrage.

The cruise will operate between Sonia Vihar and Jagatpur, covering a stretch of around 4-5 km, with each ride lasting approximately 40 minutes. The ticket has been priced at Rs 500 per person.

Chief Minister Rekha Gupta said the cruise would bring people closer to the Yamuna, giving Delhi residents an opportunity to enjoy experiences for which they often travel to other cities.

Speaking at the event, she said recreational activities, along with light-and-sound shows and the cruise service, would provide people an opportunity to spend quality time with their families.

Minister of State for Ports, Shipping and Waterways Shantanu Thakur, Delhi BJP president Harsh Malhotra and other cabinet ministers were also present at the inauguration.

Union minister Sonowal highlighted India’s achievements over the past 12 years, particularly in the development of waterways, saying the country had made significant progress in the sector.

He praised Delhi Chief Minister Gupta’s leadership, saying the national capital was developing at a rapid pace despite the government being in office for a relatively short period.

An official said each ride will accommodate a maximum of 30 passengers, while tickets will be available online through the Delhi Tourism website.

The service is aimed at offering residents and tourists a new way to experience the city and its riverfront.

The Inland Waterways Authority of India (IWAI) and Delhi government agencies signed an agreement in March 2025 to develop cruise tourism on a 4-km stretch between Sonia Vihar and Jagatpur.

Ahead of the launch, trial runs of the cruise vessel were successfully conducted last month in the presence of senior officials from the IWAI and the Delhi government.

The boats will be equipped with inboard bio-toilets with zero discharge, an announcement system and safety jackets.

The operator will be responsible for ensuring a safe, reliable and comfortable service, including the safety of passengers, crew members and other river users.

The air-conditioned boats will be either leased or owned and should not be more than two years old. The operator will also be required to run a minimum of four trips per day.