The project involves the development of an eight-km stretch of the Yamuna, from the Wazirabad barrage near Sonia Vihar to the Jagatpur ghat near the Shani temple, to support regular cruise operations.
An agreement has been signed between five key agencies to implement the service: the Inland Waterways Authority of India (IWAI), Delhi Development Authority (DDA), Delhi Jal Board (DJB), Delhi Tourism and Transport Development Corporation (DTTDC), and the Irrigation and Flood Control Department.
Under the plan, the DDA will provide land to build a jetty, while the Irrigation and Flood Control Department will install navigational aid and construct shore facilities, including electric charging stations for boats.
“Delhi is fully geared for cruise service. The work has been awarded and a jetty is being constructed. The services are expected to begin in November. Delhiites will soon be able to travel on a cruise upstream from Sonia Vihar to Jagatpur,” said Delhi Tourism Minister Kapil Mishra.
Initially, two cruise vessels are expected to be deployed. A final decision on ticket pricing and fleet size will depend on public response, according to officials. “In the initial phase, there are plans to deploy two cruises. Since it will be winter, we hope there will be a good response,” an official told PTI.
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Services will operate throughout the winter and summer months, with a planned suspension during the monsoon season for safety of travellers.
Each boat will be equipped with inboard bio-toilets to ensure zero discharge, an announcement system, and life jackets for all passengers. The operator will be responsible for providing safe, reliable, and comfortable services, and must comply with all safety and environmental regulations. Boats must be air-conditioned, either leased or owned, and not more than two years old. A minimum of four trips per day will be required, officials said.
In a statement made earlier this year, Delhi Chief Minister Rekha Gupta had announced the use of eco-friendly electric-solar hybrid boats for the service, in line with the government’s sustainability goals. Gupta also shared her vision of transforming the Yamuna ghats into cultural and artistic hubs, drawing inspiration from the ghats of Varanasi.
She reaffirmed the government’s commitment to continuous efforts in cleaning the Yamuna and promoting its development as a vibrant and accessible public space.
