Residents of the national capital are set to experience a new river-based recreational facility as the Delhi government prepares for the launch of the Namo Yamuna River Safari. The project, which covers a stretch of approximately four to five kilometres, is expected to be inaugurated ahead of the upcoming Chhath festival. During a recent inspection of the site, Delhi Chief Minister Rekha Gupta confirmed that trial operations for the cruise service are scheduled to commence this Monday.
The safari is being developed along a picturesque route between Sonia Vihar and Jagatpur. According to official details, the initiative is designed to offer a tranquil experience for visitors, serving as a new destination for family outings. Chief Minister Gupta highlighted the importance of the project, noting that it seeks to foster a deeper connection between the residents of Delhi and the river, while ensuring that the natural environment remains a priority during its development and operation.
Regarding the project's logistics and infrastructure, the total estimated cost for the development stands at ₹20 crore. The cruise service will feature air-conditioned boats, each with a capacity of 30 passengers. To ensure safety and operational standards, the vessels will be equipped with modern amenities, including announcement systems and life jackets for all passengers. Furthermore, the boats are required to be relatively new, with strict guidelines stating they must not be more than two years old, whether they are leased or owned by the operators.
The environmental impact has also been addressed in the design of the safari. The boats will be outfitted with inboard bio-toilets that operate on a zero-discharge system to prevent contamination of the river. The operator is tasked with running at least four trips every day, ensuring consistent access for the public. Passenger safety remains a primary responsibility for the operators, who are mandated to manage the welfare of the crew, visitors, and other river users throughout the duration of the 40-minute journey.
For those interested in experiencing the safari, tickets are priced at ₹500 per passenger. The government has streamlined the booking process by making tickets available through the official Delhi Tourism website. For commuters relying on public transport, the project site is accessible via the Delhi Metro. Passengers can reach the destination by alighting at the Nanaksar–Sonia Vihar Metro Station on the Pink Line, which was previously referred to as the Sonia Vihar station.
During the inspection, the Chief Minister remarked on the broader significance of the safari, expressing her hope that the project would serve as a source of pride and happiness for the city's inhabitants. By providing a structured and clean environment for citizens to spend time along the Yamuna, the administration hopes to promote both tourism and leisure in the heart of the national capital.
As the trial phase approaches this Monday, local authorities will be monitoring the operational readiness of the boats and the safety protocols at the docking points. This project represents a notable shift in how the city utilizes its waterfront, transitioning from purely utilitarian perspectives toward recreational and cultural engagement. With the launch expected shortly after the trials conclude, the administration anticipates that the safari will become a popular addition to Delhi's public spaces.
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