Delhi is set to introduce a new river cruise service on the Yamuna ahead of Chhath Puja, offering residents an opportunity to enjoy a one-hour journey along the river. Chief Minister Rekha Gupta announced the plan on Monday, October 26, during an inspection of the proposed service at Sonia Vihar.
According to Hindustan Times, the service is expected to begin a few days before Chhath Puja, which will be celebrated from November 13 to 16 this year. The initiative is part of the government’s plan to develop the Yamuna riverfront as a recreational destination for residents and visitors.
The cruise will operate along a five-kilometre stretch of the Yamuna between Sonia Vihar and Jagatpur. Officials said the one-hour journey will offer passengers panoramic views of the river, its ghats and the natural landscape along the banks.
What will the Yamuna cruise offer?
The passenger vessel, named Namo Yamuna, is a white-and-blue boat currently stationed at the Sonia Vihar Sports Club. It has been built by Mumbai-based Inspiration Marine Pvt Ltd.
The vessel, known as the Island Boats 40 (IB 40), is a 40-foot river cruise boat featuring a catamaran-style hull designed to provide stability. With a beam of 11 feet and a draft of three feet, the boat is designed to navigate relatively shallow stretches of the river.
According to government officials, the proposed facilities at the jetties will include designated boarding areas, ticket counters and waiting zones to make the experience more convenient for passengers.
Tickets are likely to cost around ₹500 per person, although the final fare and booking arrangements are yet to be officially confirmed.
Why was the launch delayed?
The ferry service was initially scheduled to launch on February 20, coinciding with the completion of one year of the BJP government in Delhi. However, the inauguration was postponed because some work on the project remained incomplete.
During Monday’s visit, Rekha Gupta inspected the proposed cruise service at Sonia Vihar and also visited Sur Ghat, where Chhath Puja celebrations will take place.
The chief minister said the area was being developed as a picnic destination where families could spend time together and offer prayers to the Yamuna.
A new attraction for Delhi residents
The proposed cruise service is expected to add a new recreational option for people in the national capital. The government hopes the initiative will encourage residents to explore the riverfront and experience the Yamuna from a different perspective.
However, the project’s long-term appeal will depend on the quality of the passenger facilities, river conditions and the cleanliness of the surrounding area.
With Chhath Puja approaching, the planned launch could provide a fresh attraction for Delhi residents, while also bringing renewed attention to the development and public use of the Yamuna riverfront.
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