Delhi's River Tourism Begins with the Launch of Yamuna Recreational Cruise Service

Delhi has launched its first recreational cruise service on the Yamuna River. The project was inaugurated by Union Minister Sarbananda Sonowal in the presence of Delhi Chief Minister Rekha Gupta. Developed along the Sonia Vihar-Jagatpur stretch, the initiative aims to boost river-based tourism in the capital.

Eco-Friendly Cruise Experience
- Features a 30-seater electric cruise vessel.
- Operates on an approximately 6-km round-trip route.
- Promotes clean and sustainable inland water transport.

New Tourism Attraction
- Designed to unlock the recreational and tourism potential of the Yamuna.
- Offers residents and visitors a new way to experience Delhi from the river.

Light and Sound Showcase
- A major attraction will be a musical fountain with a light and sound show.
- The show will highlight:
- The history and spiritual significance of the Yamuna.
- Stories associated with Surya Dev and Yama.
- The Krishna-Kaliya Daman legend.

Visitor Amenities
- Food court and shopping area.
- Children's play zone.
- Adventure activities including:
- Skating
- Rock climbing
- Floating jetties, ticket counters and online booking facilities.
- Restrooms, waiting areas and illuminated pathways.

Government Vision
- The initiative is part of the Centre's broader effort to develop India's rivers for:
- Tourism
- Passenger transport
- Economic activity
- CM Rekha Gupta said the project supports plans to transform Delhi's riverfront into an attractive public destination.

Strategic Waterway Development
- The Yamuna is designated as National Waterway-110 under the National Waterways Act, 2016.
- The cruise service marks a key step in developing the river for recreational navigation and tourism.

Part of India's Inland Waterways Growth
- Cargo movement on national waterways increased from 18 million metric tonnes in 2013-14 to 218 million metric tonnes in 2025-26.
- River cruise tourism has also expanded, with overnight cruise vessels increasing from 5 to 26 during the same period.

Multi-Agency Collaboration
- Developed by the Inland Waterways Authority of India (IWAI) under the Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways.
- Implemented in partnership with:
- Delhi Development Authority (DDA)
- Delhi Tourism and Transportation Development Corporation (DTTDC)
- Delhi Jal Board
- Irrigation and Flood Control Department

Why It Matters
- Introduces a new tourism experience in Delhi.
- Promotes sustainable mobility through electric vessels.
- Enhances public engagement with the Yamuna while supporting local tourism and economic activity.