Sustainable Serenity: Yamuna's New Electric Cruise Experience

Delhi is set to introduce a sustainable tourism initiative with the launch of electric-powered river cruises on the Yamuna by December. This marks a major step in revitalizing the river and promoting eco-friendly tourism in the capital.

The Inland Waterways Authority of India (IWAI) has awarded a contract for constructing two jetties at Sonia Vihar, north of Wazirabad. Meanwhile, the Delhi Tourism and Transportation Corporation Limited (DTTDC) has finalized an operator to run the cruise service. Procurement of electric boats is expected within 3–4 months, with a memorandum of understanding (MoU) in progress to establish operational and revenue-sharing terms.

The cruises will run along a 4-kilometer stretch between Sonia Vihar and Jagatpur, chosen for its cleaner waters and navigable depth. Lieutenant Governor V.K. Saxena recently held a review meeting with officials from IWAI, DTTDC, DDA, and other departments to assess progress.

A key attraction will be a theme-based musical water projection show set on the river, highlighting Delhi’s history, Indian dance traditions, and the cultural and ecological significance of the Yamuna.

This project is the result of a collaborative effort. An MoU signed in March brought together IWAI and various Delhi government agencies, paving the way for the cruise operations. The Centre and the Delhi government have worked in tandem to bring the long-pending project to life within just three months.

The upcoming cruises promise residents and tourists a new, environmentally conscious way to engage with Delhi’s iconic river, blending heritage with sustainability.

News by Rahul Yelligetti.