New Delhi: Delhi residents may soon be able to enjoy a river cruise, with govt planning to open the Yamuna Safari before Chhath Puja .
Under the proposed arrangements, the entry fee for the premises will be Rs 50, and a complete cruise trip will cost Rs 500. The final date is yet to be announced. You Can Also Check: Gold Rate in Delhi | Silver Rate in Delhi | Bank Holidays in Delhi | Public Holidays in Delhi | Delhi AQI | Weather in Delhi | Petrol Price in Delhi | Diesel Price in Delhi | CNG Price in Delhi | LPG Price in Delhi Stay updated with the latest Delhi news.
The initiative aims to give a new dimension to Yamuna tourism, Delhi govt said. Gupta said Delhi shared a deep emotional and cultural bond with the Yamuna and the safari would provide residents an opportunity to experience the river differently. Delhi tourism minister Kapil Mishra said the project was taking shape through the joint effort of central and Delhi govts, DDA and Delhi Tourism. He said the planned attractions included boat rides, a musical fountain, water sports and a food park. Mishra said the project had followed National Green Tribunal requirements and environmental standards.
Chief minister Rekha Gupta Monday conducted a trial run of the service between Sonia Vihar and Jagatpur and reviewed the facilities developed for visitors. During the inspection, officials briefed the CM on the project’s progress, operational arrangements and passenger facilities. She also stressed that tourism development must go hand in hand with keeping the Yamuna clean and protecting the environment. The project involves coordination among the Inland Waterways Authority of India, DDA, Delhi Tourism and Transportation Development Corporation, Irrigation and Flood Control Department, and Delhi Jal Board. Govt is also preparing for Chhath Puja celebrations along the Yamuna this year, with the proposed opening of the safari expected to add a tourism attraction ahead of the festival. The chief minister also inspected Chhath preparations at Soor Ghat. She ordered repairs to damaged structures, improved lighting, better sanitation and adequate bathing facilities. Download the TOI App.
The proposed cruise will cover approximately 6km, with a round trip from Sonia Vihar to the Shani Temple in Jagatpur and back expected to take 35 to 45 minutes. The cruise is planned to accommodate 30 passengers.
The initiative is expected to create new tourism opportunities, boost local economic activity and generate employment, according to govt. The trial run is expected to continue for about a week, followed by preparations for the launch in the first week of Nov. The project also envisages facilities such as food kiosks, a restaurant, a kids’ zone and other essential public amenities along the river.