Yamuna River Cruise: Delhi Government's New Tourist Initiative
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Synopsis
On March 2, the Delhi BJP government announced plans to revitalize the Yamuna River, aiming to create a tourism hotspot with cruise rides. The DTTDC is seeking private operators for solar-powered cruises, with service expected to start by late 2025, enhancing tourism along this vital waterway.
Key Takeaways
- The Delhi government plans to develop cruise rides on the Yamuna River.
- The initiative aims to turn the river stretch near Wazirabad into a tourism hotspot.
- Two solar-powered boats will accommodate 20-30 passengers.
- The project involves collaboration with multiple government agencies.
- Service is expected to commence by late 2025.
New Delhi, March 2 (NationPress) Capitalizing on the substantial electoral support from the people of Delhi, the newly established BJP administration is eager to fulfill its extensive list of election commitments. The most recent initiative is the revitalization of the Yamuna River and its transformation into a prominent tourism destination.
The city authorities have commenced preparations to introduce cruise excursions along the Yamuna River, aiming to develop the area near the Wazirabad barrage into a unique tourism hotspot. Plans are underway to launch ferry and boat taxi services in the capital.
The Delhi Tourism and Transport Development Corporation (DTTDC) is reported to have already released a request for quotation (RFQ) to engage a private operator for running solar battery-powered cruises along a seven-kilometer stretch from Sonia Vihar to Jagatpur.
The DTTDC has also solicited proposals from private operators with prior cruise travel experience to initiate the river cruise service.
The project will involve active collaboration among various agencies, including the Inland Waterways Authority of India (IWAI), Delhi Development Authority (DDA), Delhi Jal Board (DJB), DTTDC, as well as the irrigation and flood control department.
Once operational, the cruise service is expected to generate significant tourism activity along the river. Reports indicate that the project could be up and running by April 2025, with the operating agency expected to be finalized by the end of the year.
Initially, two electric-solar hybrid boats will be introduced for the ferry service, accommodating approximately 20-30 passengers. These boats will be air-conditioned and will operate year-round, except during the Monsoon season.
It is noteworthy that the Yamuna River emerged as a key issue during the Delhi Assembly elections, with the ruling AAP and the opposition BJP exchanging harsh words over its cleanliness. The river, particularly in its Delhi segment, has come under scrutiny due to its frothy and polluted water in recent years.
While AAP has pointed fingers at previous administrations for the accumulating waste, the BJP has criticized the current party for its negligence, making grand promises that if elected, they would develop the Yamuna riverfront akin to the Sabarmati front in Gujarat.
