Developed at an estimated cost of ₹200 million, the Yamuna Boat Tourism and Ferry Infrastructure Project is currently under review, with facilities being readied to support future operations.
Union Minister for Ports, Shipping and Waterways Sarbananda Sonowal has said that river cruises and ferry services in Delhi will receive a fillip with the launch of the Yamuna Boat Tourism and Ferry Infrastructure Project.
Speaking to mediapersons after reviewing the project on Tuesday, Sonowal said, “Eco-friendly cruise tourism on the Yamuna is a major milestone, paving the way for cleaner, greener and more efficient water transport that will boost connectivity and tourism in the heart of Delhi.”
Sonowal was accompanied by Delhi Lieutenant Governor Vinai Kumar Saxena, Delhi Tourism Minister Kapil Mishra, and Delhi Public Works Department Minister Pravesh Sahib Singh.
The project, located upstream of the Wazirabad Barrage between Sonia Vihar and Jagatpur, is expected to provide a new green tourism experience and enhance connectivity through eco‑friendly river travel. Developed at an estimated cost of ₹200 million, the initiative is currently under review, with facilities being readied to support future operations.
The River Yamuna, notified as National Waterway 110 (NW-110), stretches 1,080 km from Delhi’s Jagatpur to Prayagraj in Uttar Pradesh. As part of efforts to promote inland water transport and short-distance urban tourism, the Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways (MoPSW) is developing facilities along a 6-7 km round-trip corridor between Sonia Vihar and Jagatpur.
To support implementation, the national waterway development agency, Inland Waterways Authority of India (IWAI), has signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with key departments of the Delhi government, including Irrigation and Flood Control, Delhi Development Authority (DDA), Delhi Jal Board (DJB) and Delhi Tourism and Transportation Development Corporation (DTTDC). The agreement focuses on developing cruise tourism along a four-kilometre stretch of NW-110.
Green River Mobility
The Sonia Vihar-Jagatpur corridor will function as a hub for eco-friendly cruise operations, powered by electric-solar hybrid boats that can accommodate 30 to 40 passengers. The vessels will feature safety equipment, including life jackets and public announcement systems. IWAI has already installed two floating jetties with a capacity of 50 passengers each at Sonia Vihar. Additional on-shore amenities such as parking, basic facilities, and recreational spaces are planned.
Speaking on Yamuna’s potential to develop into a mode of passenger commute, Sonowal said, “Beyond enabling cleaner modes of travel, this project will enhance the experience of residents and tourists alike by adding a unique river-cruise dimension to the capital’s tourism landscape. With eco-friendly boat services and modern passenger facilities, Yamuna will not only emerge as a vibrant recreational corridor but also as a dynamic water transport link that strengthens connectivity and economic opportunities in the heart of the city.”
The project is expected to revitalise recreational activities, enhance green mobility and reshape Delhi’s tourism landscape by offering new river-based experiences for residents and tourists.