IWAI Signs MoU with Delhi Govt to Launch Eco-Friendly Cruise Tourism on Yamuna

The agreement aims to promote and develop cruise tourism along a four-kilometre stretch of the Yamuna River (National Waterway 110) between Sonia Vihar and Jagatpur.

The Inland Waterways Authority of India (IWAI), under the Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways (MoPSW), has entered into a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with key agencies of the Delhi government, including the Irrigation and Flood Control Department, Delhi Development Authority (DDA), Delhi Jal Board (DJB), and Delhi Transport Corporation (DTC). The agreement aims to promote and develop cruise tourism along a four-kilometre stretch of the Yamuna River (National Waterway 110) between Sonia Vihar and Jagatpur.

MoU Signing Ceremony and Key Dignitaries

The MoU signing ceremony took place at Asita Park in Delhi, with prominent dignitaries in attendance. The event was graced by Delhi’s Lieutenant Governor, Shri Vinai Kumar Saxena, and the Chief Minister of Delhi, Rekha Gupta. Union Minister of Ports, Shipping and Waterways, Shri Sarbananda Sonowal, along with Union Minister of State (MoPSW), Shri Shantanu Thakur, were also present. Senior officials such as Shri T K Ramachandran, Secretary, MoPSW, and Shri Vijay Kumar, Chairman, IWAI, participated in the historic agreement.

Government’s Vision for Waterways Development

Speaking on the occasion, Union Minister Shri Sarbananda Sonowal highlighted the transformative progress of India’s waterways under the leadership of Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi. He emphasized that inland water transport is witnessing a revival, with an increased focus on sustainability and modernization. The launch of eco-friendly cruise tourism on the Yamuna aligns with the government’s broader vision of promoting cleaner and greener transportation alternatives.

“For years, the people of Delhi have witnessed the neglect of the Yamuna, but this initiative marks a significant step toward reclaiming its beauty. With the launch of these cruises, Delhiites and tourists will experience the river in a new and refreshing way,” said Shri Sonowal.

Project Details and Sustainable Cruise Operations

The initiative will transform the Sonia Vihar–Jagatpur stretch into a hub for eco-friendly cruise operations. The project focuses on sustainable and non-polluting water transport, featuring electric-solar hybrid boats capable of carrying 20-30 passengers. Each boat will be equipped with modern amenities, including bio-toilets, Public Announcement (PA) systems, and life jackets for passenger safety.

To facilitate smooth ferry operations, IWAI will install two High-Density Polyethylene (HDPE) jetties. This infrastructure will not only promote short-distance navigation but also encourage recreational activities along National Waterway 110 (NW-110). The project aims to redefine Delhi’s tourism landscape by offering an eco-friendly river cruising experience, fostering green transport, and boosting local economic growth.

National Waterway 110 and Its Development

The Yamuna River stretch from Jagatpur in Delhi to its confluence with the Ganges at Prayagraj spans 1,089 km across Delhi, Haryana, and Uttar Pradesh. It was declared National Waterway-110 in 2014. IWAI, under the leadership of Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi and Union Minister Shri Sarbananda Sonowal, has been driving major infrastructural developments to enhance the potential of national waterways.

IWAI is actively expanding its inland water transport network across India, from Arunachal Pradesh to Gujarat and Jammu & Kashmir to Kerala. Significant advancements have been made on NW 1 (Ganga), NW 2 (Brahmaputra), NW 3 (West Coast Canal), and NW 16, including the development of new terminals, fairways, night navigation aids, and locks.

Advancing Green and Sustainable Water Transport

As part of its commitment to sustainability under the "Harit Nauka Guidelines," IWAI has introduced electric catamarans in Varanasi and Ayodhya, with six more planned for Mathura and Guwahati. The authority is also developing cruise terminals and promoting river tourism on the Ganga and Brahmaputra to unlock India’s waterways' full potential.

By collaborating with the Delhi government, IWAI is strengthening urban water transport and advancing eco-friendly cruise tourism. The initiative will not only enhance travel experiences but also support local economic growth and sustainable infrastructure development along the Yamuna River.