Delhi's Yamuna River Cruise Prepares for February Debut
For many years, the Yamuna River has served more as a scenic backdrop than an active destination in Delhi. This perception is about to shift dramatically. Come February, residents and tourists alike might find themselves enjoying a leisurely cruise on the river itself. The Delhi government is finalizing plans to launch this innovative service. Officials are considering timing the inauguration to align with the first anniversary of the BJP-led government in the capital.
Construction Nears Completion in Mumbai
The cruise vessel is currently undergoing its final construction phases in Mumbai. Workers are putting the finishing touches on the boat. It is expected to begin its voyage to Delhi around January 20. The journey by water should take approximately four to five days. Once the vessel arrives in the national capital, authorities will conduct mandatory safety inspections. They will also complete all necessary launch formalities.
Chief Minister Rekha Gupta is scheduled to officially flag off the service next month. This event will mark a significant milestone for river tourism in the city.
Government Officials Confirm Progress
Tourism Minister Kapil Mishra recently visited the construction site in Mumbai. He expressed confidence about the project's progress. "The cruise is almost ready," Mishra stated. "A jetty has already been prepared at Wazirabad. This will serve as the starting point for all journeys."
Government sources indicate that the administration is actively considering scheduling the launch to commemorate its one year in office. The BJP government was sworn in on February 20 of last year. A river cruise inauguration would provide a symbolic and public celebration of this milestone.
Route Details and Passenger Capacity
The cruise will operate along a specific stretch of the Yamuna. The route will cover approximately 7 to 8 kilometers. It will travel from the Wazirabad Barrage to Shani Mandir in Jagatpur before returning. Each complete trip is designed to last about one hour.
The vessel can accommodate up to 40 passengers at a time. This allows for intimate group experiences on the water. The selected route falls under the designation of National Waterway-110. Central and state authorities are developing this waterway specifically to boost tourism opportunities.
This initiative represents a bold step toward transforming the Yamuna from a neglected channel into a vibrant recreational space. It promises to offer Delhi's citizens and visitors a unique new perspective on their city.
