Delhi government plans solar-powered ferry service on Yamuna
What's the story
The Delhi government has announced plans to launch a ferry and cruise service along a 7-8km stretch of the Yamuna River. The initiative is aimed at boosting tourism and promoting sustainable water transport in the region. The service will operate between Wazirabad Barrage (Sonia Vihar) and Jagatpur (Shani Temple) in New Delhi and operations are expected to start by late 2025 or early 2026.
Operator selection
DTTDC seeks operator for solar-powered cruise ships
The Delhi Tourism and Transport Development Corporation (DTTDC) has floated a request for proposals (RFP) to choose an operator for two solar-powered cruise ships. Interested bidders will have to submit pre-qualification, technical, and financial proposals via the e-procurement system of the Government of the National Capital Territory of Delhi (GNCTD). The contract will be awarded for a five-year operation period with the successful bidder being determined by the highest revenue share offer payable to DTTDC.
Service schedule
Cruise service to operate 270 days annually
The proposed cruise service will operate for 270 days a year. Required clearances for the same have been taken from the Delhi Jal Board and the Irrigation and Flood Control Department. Bidders will have to submit an Earnest Money Deposit of ₹5,00,000 through Demand Draft in favor of DTTDC with their proposal submission.
Project goals
Project aims to rejuvenate Yamuna river, boost tourism
The project is part of a larger plan to revive the Yamuna River, one of India's dirtiest rivers. It also seeks to convert the river into a major tourist spot, much like Ahmedabad's Sabarmati riverfront. The operator will provide two electric-solar hybrid boats, each with a capacity of 20-30 passengers at speeds of 5-7 knots and at least four round trips a day.
Agency collaboration
Collaboration with multiple agencies for project execution
The Yamuna River project is a joint effort of multiple agencies including the Inland Waterways Authority of India (IWAI), Delhi Development Authority (DDA), Delhi Jal Board (DJB), DTTDC, and the irrigation and flood control department. The irrigation and flood control department will provide floating jetties and shore facilities with charging infrastructure for the solar-powered boats.