Delhi is set to get a brand-new recreational experience as trial runs for its first-ever Yamuna river cruise have officially begun. This initiative aims to transform a stretch of the river into a leisure corridor for residents and tourists.
What is the Yamuna River Cruise?
The 'Namo Yamuna
River Safari' is a new tourism project designed to offer a unique way to experience the capital. The service will operate on a designated stretch of the Yamuna, which has been notified as National Waterway 110 (NW-110). The project is a collaborative effort involving the Inland Waterways Authority of India (IWAI) and several Delhi government departments, including the DDA and the Delhi Tourism and Transportation Development Corporation. The primary goal is to promote river-based tourism and provide a new recreational option in the city, shifting the river's perception from just a utility corridor to a leisure destination.
The Trial Runs Explained
Before the cruise officially opens to the public, it must undergo a series of crucial trial runs. These trials, which began on October 26, are scheduled to last for about four to five days. The purpose of these test journeys is to ensure everything is operationally ready. This includes checking the route for any navigational challenges, verifying the 40-minute travel time, and testing all safety protocols on board. Officials, including Delhi's Chief Minister, have been inspecting the route between Sonia Vihar and Jagatpur to finalise arrangements for cleanliness, security, and passenger convenience before the public launch.
Route, Timings, and Cost
The cruise will cover a 5-kilometre stretch on the Yamuna, running between Sonia Vihar and Jagatpur. Each trip is expected to last approximately 40 minutes and will cost ₹500 per passenger. The service will use air-conditioned, eco-friendly boats with a capacity for a maximum of 30 passengers per trip. The plan is to operate a minimum of four trips daily. While there will be a cruise fare, some reports suggest there may also be a separate entry fee of ₹50 to access the premises, which are envisioned to include amenities like a park and food kiosks.
The Onboard Experience
The vessels for the safari are modern, catamaran-style boats built by a Mumbai-based company. They are electric-solar hybrid boats, designed to be eco friendly and minimise environmental impact. For passenger comfort and safety, the boats will be equipped with bio toilets, a public announcement system, and essential life jackets. The journey will take place on the cleaner, upstream segment of the Yamuna near the Wazirabad barrage, offering passengers pleasant views of the river's natural surroundings.
When Will It Launch?
While an official, final date has not yet been announced, authorities are aiming to launch the 'Namo Yamuna River Safari' for the public before the Chhath Mahaparv festival in November 2026. After the week long trial runs conclude, final preparations will be made for the formal inauguration. The launch has faced previous delays, having been initially planned for earlier in the year. However, with the trial runs now actively underway, the much anticipated service appears to be in its final phase before becoming operational. Tickets are expected to be available online through the Delhi Tourism website once the service is launched.
