Delhi Plans Eco-Friendly Cruise Service on Yamuna for Tourism Boost

New Delhi, March 1 – The Delhi government is gearing up to introduce a cruise service along a six-kilometer stretch of the Yamuna River, aiming to enhance tourism while promoting sustainable transport. The project, spanning from the Wazirabad barrage at Sonia Vihar to Jagatpur near the Shani temple, is being developed as part of the river's rejuvenation efforts.

The Delhi Tourism and Transport Development Corporation (DTTDC) has floated a request for quotation (RFQ) to engage an operator for running two solar or electric battery-powered cruises on the designated stretch. According to officials, the initiative aligns with the government's broader vision of fostering environment-friendly tourism in the national capital.

Key Features of the Cruise Service

  • Route: The cruise service will operate between Sonia Vihar and Jagatpur, covering a round trip of approximately 7-8 kilometers.
  • Sustainability: The project will deploy electric-solar hybrid boats, ensuring zero emissions and minimal environmental impact.
  • Capacity & Speed: Each boat will accommodate 20-30 passengers and operate at a speed of 5-7 knots.
  • Infrastructure: Floating jetties and navigational aids, along with a shore facility featuring charging infrastructure, will be provided by the Delhi Jal Board (DJB) and the irrigation and flood control department.
  • Amenities & Safety: The boats will be equipped with air-conditioning, inboard bio-toilets (zero discharge), an announcement system, and life jackets to ensure passenger safety.
  • Operational Frequency: The operator must conduct a minimum of four trips per day.

Multi-Agency Collaboration for Implementation

The cruise project is being implemented with the coordinated efforts of the Inland Waterways Authority of India (IWAI), Delhi Development Authority (DDA), DJB, DTTDC, and the irrigation and flood control department. While the IWAI and DDA will oversee the project's execution, DTTDC will engage a private operator to run the services.

The selected operator must provide boats that are either newly leased or not older than two years, ensuring reliability and efficiency. The primary goal is to offer a safe, comfortable, and seamless river-cruise experience while rejuvenating the Yamuna as a viable waterway.

This ambitious initiative is expected to position the Yamuna as a tourism hotspot, adding a unique recreational dimension to Delhi’s offerings while championing green transport solutions.
 
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