IWAI signs MoU Delhi government agencies to develop the Yamuna Boat tourism

By Admin

20 Nov, 2025

India is set to welcome a new chapter in urban water-based mobility and tourism with the Inland Waterways Authority of India (IWAI) signing a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with multiple Delhi government agencies to develop the Yamuna Boat Tourism and Ferry Infrastructure Project. This ambitious initiative is designed to transform a significant stretch of the Yamuna into a vibrant hub for leisure cruises, ferry services, and eco-friendly river tourism.

Introduction to the Project

Under the MoU, IWAI will work closely with the Irrigation and Flood Control Department, Delhi Development Authority (DDA), Delhi Jal Board (DJB), and the Delhi Tourism and Transportation Development Corporation (DTTDC). Together, these agencies aim to introduce structured boat cruises and ferry services across a designated corridor of the Yamuna in the national capital.

The project has already received high-level attention, with senior officials including Union Minister for Ports, Shipping and Waterways Sarbananda Sonowal, Delhi Lieutenant Governor Vinai Kumar Saxena, and Delhi Tourism Minister Kapil Mishra reviewing its progress recently.

Project Location and Coverage

The upcoming service will operate along a 6–7 km stretch located upstream of the Wazirabad Barrage, between Sonia Vihar and Jagatpur. This section forms part of National Waterway 110, which spans from Jagatpur in Delhi to Prayagraj in Uttar Pradesh. Strategically selected for its potential to support smooth water-based mobility, this corridor is expected to boost both tourism and commuter movement.

Infrastructure and Planned Developments

The Yamuna Boat Tourism Project comes with an estimated investment of ₹20 crore. To support operations:

• Two floating jetties with a capacity to hold 50 passengers each have already been set up at Sonia Vihar.
  
  

• The fleet will include electric–solar hybrid boats accommodating 30–40 passengers. These vessels aim to reduce carbon footprint and support sustainable mobility.
  
  

• The plan also features dedicated parking zones, recreational areas, and supporting amenities designed to create a seamless and enjoyable visitor experience.
  
  

Eco-Friendly Vision Behind the Initiative

Union Minister Sarbananda Sonowal emphasized that the project reflects the government’s commitment to sustainable, eco-friendly waterway development. The use of hybrid boats and modern floating infrastructure underscores a long-term vision for green transportation in urban India.

Expected Benefits for Delhi

Once operational, the Yamuna cruise and ferry services will offer multiple benefits:

• Enhanced connectivity along the river
  
  

• Boosted tourism and new recreational opportunities
  
  

• A cleaner, more organized riverfront experience
  
  

• Growth in local economic activity around the tourism ecosystem
  
  

• Increased public engagement with the Yamuna as a cultural and natural resource
  
  

The Yamuna Boat Tourism Project is poised to redefine river-based experiences in Delhi, offering residents and visitors an entirely new way to explore the city. With strong inter-agency collaboration and a sustainable development approach, the initiative promises to become a landmark feature in India's evolving inland waterways network.