Yamuna Tourist Cruise: AC comfort, bio-toilets - know more about ferry services, speed & stations

Representative image (source: @Indianinfoguide)

The BJP government in Delhi has announced plans to launch an eco-friendly cruise service along the Yamuna River to boost tourism. The plan involves the development of a six-km stretch of the Yamuna, from the Wazirabad barrage (Sonia Vihar) to Jagatpur (Shani temple), for tourist cruise operations.

On February 28, the Delhi Tourism and Transport Development Corporation (DTTDC) released a request for quotation (RFQ) to find a suitable operator for two solar or electric battery-powered cruises along the designated river stretch.

The project is anticipated to improve river cruise tourism once it is up and running, providing a sustainable and environmentally friendly water transportation choice.

The proposal states that the Delhi Development Authority (DDA), Delhi Jal Board (DJB), DTTDC, the Inland Waterways Authority of India (IWAI), and the irrigation and flood control department will work together on the project.

Distribution of work among departments

The DTTDC will hire an operator for the cruise services, which will begin and end at Sonia Vihar, covering a round trip of seven to eight kilometres.

The IWAI and DDA will work with the DJB to carry out the project. Additionally, the department in charge of flood control and irrigation will supply shore amenities with charging infrastructure and floating jetties for the cruises.

Two electric-solar hybrid boats will be provided by the selected operator to run the ferry services. Each boat must accommodate 20-30 passengers and be capable of reaching speeds between five to seven knots.

Boat specifications and operational guidelines for Yamuna cruise

According to the proposal, the boats must feature inboard bio-toilets (zero discharge), an announcement system, and safety jackets for passengers.

The operator will be expected to offer a cruise service that is both safe and reliable, prioritising the well-being of all passengers, crew members, and other river users.

The boats should be air-conditioned, leased, or owned, and no older than two years. The operator must guarantee a minimum of four round journeys every day.