Delhi is set to introduce the “Namo Yamuna” ferry service on the Yamuna River just days prior to the Chhath Puja celebrations scheduled from November 13 to 16, as announced by Chief Minister Rekha Gupta. This new service aims to enhance the festive experience and promote the Yamuna as a recreational destination.
During an inspection at the Sonia Vihar Sports Club, CM Gupta emphasized the project’s significance in transforming the area into a picturesque picnic spot for families. The ferry will operate a one-hour cruise between Sonia Vihar and Jagatpur, covering approximately five kilometres of the river, offering passengers scenic views of the ghats and the natural riverbanks.
Tickets for the ferry service are expected to be priced at around ₹500 per person. Despite its planned launch earlier this year, the project faced delays due to incomplete work, but preparations are now underway to ensure it is ready for the upcoming festival.
The vessel, named Island Boats 40 (IB 40), was constructed by Inspiration Marine Pvt Ltd, a Mumbai-based company. Designed with a catamaran-style hull for stability, the 40-foot boat is tailored to navigate the shallower sections of the Yamuna. The ferry’s jetties will feature boarding facilities, ticket counters, and waiting areas to accommodate passengers efficiently.