In the next 6 months, people in Delhi might be able to take a ferry ride on the Yamuna River in the city. A 4 to 6-km stretch of the river, from Sonia Vihar to Jagatpur, will be made ready for ferry services. This will be done by the Inland Waterways Authority of India (IWAI) along with different Delhi government departments, as part of an agreement signed on Tuesday.
The Inland Waterways Authority of India (IWAI), which is part of the Union Ministry of Ports, Shipping, and Waterways, signed an agreement with the Delhi government’s Irrigation and Flood Control Department (I&FCD) and Delhi Tourism and Transport Development Corporation (DTTDC). Together, they will develop the river stretch for cruise tourism.
L-G V K Saxena said, “The Ministry has been working on this for more than a year. I also held various meetings with officials, ministers, and chief ministers of the then Delhi government, but this was not possible. This project, which was so important for Delhi, was held up due to negative politics and was stalled. Two years ago, to make the Yamuna navigable, I requested an Indian Navy boat and tried to make it operational in Yamuna. The then CM went to the Supreme Court and all those services were stopped.”
This is expected to promote short-distance travel and fun activities, especially in National Waterway 110 (River Yamuna from Jagatpur (Delhi) to Sangam in Prayagraj (Uttar Pradesh)) stretch, upstream of the Wazirabad Barrage.
Saxena, Delhi CM Rekha Gupta and Union Ports, Shipping and Waterways Minister Sarbananda Sonowal were present at the signing of the MoU at DDA’s East Asita Park.
About The Cruise:
The initiative will focus on eco-friendly cruise services, using electric-solar hybrid boats that can carry 20-30 passengers at a time.
These boats will have special toilets that use less water, systems to make announcements, and life jackets to keep everyone safe and comfortable while traveling. Also, two floating docks made from plastic will be built to help the ferries operate smoothly, according to a statement from the IWAI.
As Per The MoU:
DTTDC will manage boat operations, hire boat operators, and make sure all inland vessel rules are followed to promote tourism.
IWAI will lead the development of infrastructure, such as floating jetties, charging stations for hybrid boats, and navigational tools, while making sure passengers are safe.
DDA will provide land for shore facilities, help with last-mile connectivity, and offer public services like electricity and restrooms.
DJB will monitor water quality, manage the barrage for safe navigation, and take care of drinking water supply and waste disposal.
I&FCD will maintain the embankments, provide access to roads, and ensure safety rules are followed.
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