Delhi, the capital city of India, boasts several famous landmarks, including India Gate and the Red Fort. To improve tourism, the Delhi government is working on a plan to rejuvenate the Yamuna River. This initiative includes launching a Yamuna river cruise service between Sonia Vihar and Jagatpur.
According to reports from the Press Trust of India (PTI), the project aims to develop a six-kilometer stretch of the Yamuna, from the Wazirabad barrage at Sonia Vihar to the Shani temple in Jagatpur, specifically for tourist cruises. Once this service is up and running, it’s anticipated to promote river cruise tourism, providing a green and sustainable means of transportation on the water.
The Yamuna Cruise service will launch through a partnership involving several organizations, including the Inland Waterways Authority of India (IWAI), the Delhi Development Authority (DDA), the Delhi Jal Board (DJB), the Delhi Tourism and Transport Development Corporation (DTTDC), along with the irrigation and flood control departments, as per the outlined proposal.
The Yamuna Cruise Service Will Start At Sonia Vihar
To begin this initiative, the DTTDC has issued a request for quotation (RFQ) to find an appropriate operator for two solar or electric battery-powered cruise boats along a specified section of the river.
The cruise journey will start and finish at Sonia Vihar, covering a round trip of approximately seven to eight kilometers. The operational aspects will be managed by the IWAI and DDA, with support from the DJB. Additionally, the irrigation and flood control department will install floating jetties and necessary charging facilities for the boats.
The selected operator will need to provide two hybrid electric-solar boats. Each boat will accommodate 20-30 passengers and is capable of traveling at speeds between five to seven knots. Essential features must include inboard bio-toilets, an announcement system, and safety jackets. The operator must prioritize safety and reliability, ensuring at least four round trips per day. The boats should also be air-conditioned and must not be older than two years.
