Full Breakdown
Delhi’s First Yamuna River Cruise Set to Launch Ahead of Chhath Festival
By Drooid · · How we work
Core Event
On October 26, 2026, Delhi Chief Minister Rekha Gupta and Tourism Minister Kapil Mishra inspected trial runs of the city’s inaugural river-cruise service, the “Namo Yamuna River Safari.” The inspection covered the Sonia Vihar–Jagatpur stretch, and the government announced a formal inauguration before the Chhath Mahaparv (Nov 13-16).
Background & Context
Announced by the BJP government in 2025, the project follows a March 2025 agreement between the Inland Waterways Authority of India (IWAI) and Delhi agencies to develop cruise tourism on a four-kilometre segment upstream of the Wazirabad barrage. It is promoted as a family-friendly picnic destination and a source of local jobs.
Data & Statistics
- Route length: Reported as 4-5 km, 5 km, or six km.
- Trip duration: Planned round-trip time is 40 minutes (some reports cite one hour).
- Capacity: Up to 30 passengers per boat.
- Fare: Around INR500 per person; final pricing pending.
- Frequency: Minimum of four trips per day.
- Vessel specs: 40-foot catamaran (Island Boats 40) built by Inspiration Marine Pvt Ltd, with bio-toilets, safety jackets and an announcement system.
Official Statements & Responses
- Chief Minister Rekha Gupta said the launch will precede Chhath, calling the cruise a “special experience” offering “peace” and “blessings” on the Yamuna. She urged focus on cleanliness, safety and amenities such as food kiosks and a children’s zone.
- Tourism Minister Kapil Mishra confirmed tickets will be sold online via the Delhi Tourism website.
- IWAI officials highlighted bio-toilets and a “zero-discharge” policy to protect river water quality.
Conflicting Reports & Gaps
- Route length: Varies between sources (?6 km, 4-5 km, 5 km).
- Trip duration: Reported as either 40 minutes or one hour.
- Launch timing: Some outlets note a soft launch on Oct 26 with a formal inauguration in early November; earlier reports had mentioned a February 20 launch that was delayed.
Verbatim Quote
- “Our effort is to have its inauguration before the Chhath Mahaparv. This will become a beautiful picnic spot for families, where full attention will be given to nature and the cleanliness of Mother Yamuna,” — Rekha Gupta
Why It Matters
The cruise marks Delhi’s first major river-tourism venture, aiming to diversify recreational options and create local employment. Aligning the inauguration with Chhath integrates cultural festivities with tourism, while environmental measures address Yamuna pollution concerns.
What’s Next
- Formal inauguration: First week of November, ahead of Chhath Mahaparv.
- Ticket sales: To begin online via the Delhi Tourism portal shortly after the soft launch.
- Operational monitoring: Authorities will review trial-run feedback on safety, cleanliness and passenger experience before expanding to the mandated four-daily trips.