The Namo Yamuna River Safari features a 30-seater electric vessel operating on a 6-km round-trip route.
Union Minister of Ports, Shipping and Waterways Sarbananda Sonowal launched the first recreational Yamuna River cruise service at Sonia Vihar on Tuesday, according to reports by ANI and The Economic Times. The service, named 'Namo Yamuna River Safari', operates on a 6-km round-trip stretch between Sonia Vihar and Jagatpur.
The inauguration took place in the presence of Delhi Chief Minister Rekha Gupta, Lieutenant Governor Taranjit Singh Sandhu, and Tourism Minister Kapil Mishra. The project is a joint initiative involving the Centre, the Delhi government, and the Delhi Development Authority (DDA).
The service uses a 30-seater electric vessel to provide an eco-tourism experience. Facilities at the riverfront include a musical fountain with a light and sound show, a food court, a shopping area, a children's play zone, and adventure sports such as rock climbing and skating.
Minister Kapil Mishra stated that entry begins at 9 am and the last ticket is issued around 9 pm. He added that the number of boats would be increased in the future.
Sarbananda Sonowal said the launch signals a new wave of river tourism and reflects the government's commitment to harnessing inland waterways. Chief Minister Rekha Gupta said the initiative would offer a new way to experience the river and create opportunities for local economic activity.
The Yamuna has been designated as National Waterway-110 under the National Waterways Act, 2016. The project was developed by the Inland Waterways Authority of India (IWAI) in collaboration with several Delhi government departments.
