The Inland Waterways Authority of India (IWAI) has signed a historic agreement with the Delhi government to promote cruise tourism on the Yamuna River. The initiative aims to revitalize and develop a four-kilometer stretch of the river between Sonia Vihar and Jagatpur for cruise tourism, part of National Waterway 110.
In a memorandum of understanding (MoU), IWAI partnered with multiple Delhi government agencies, including the Irrigation and Flood Control Department, Delhi Development Authority (DDA), Delhi Jal Board (DJB), and the Delhi Transport Corporation (DTC). This collaborative effort seeks to promote sustainable water transport and boost tourism on the river.
Union Minister of Ports, Shipping & Waterways, Sarbananda Sonowal, expressed optimism about the project, noting that for years, Delhiites had witnessed the neglect of the Yamuna River. He described the project as the beginning of “a long-overdue correction” that would allow both locals and tourists to rediscover and enjoy the river’s beauty. “With the launch of these cruises, Delhiites along with tourists will once again fall in love with their river,” Sonowal said.
The plan includes the deployment of electric-solar hybrid boats, each carrying 20-30 passengers. These eco-friendly vessels will be equipped with bio-toilets, public announcement systems, and life jackets to ensure passenger safety. In addition, two HDPE jetties will be installed to facilitate smooth ferry operations.
The development will help improve short-distance navigation and recreational activities along National Waterway 110, especially upstream of the Wazirabad Barrage. It is expected to promote green and sustainable tourism in the region.
The stretch of the Yamuna River from Jagatpur to its confluence with the Ganges at Prayagraj, which spans 1,089 kilometers across Delhi, Haryana, and Uttar Pradesh, was designated as National Waterway 110 in 2014.
