Delhi CM Rekha Gupta announces Yamuna ferry service ahead of Chhath Puja
The Delhi government will begin a one‑hour, 5‑km ferry cruise between Sonia Vihar and Jagatpur just before the Chhath celebrations, showcasing the city's push to develop urban waterways.
What happened
Delhi chief minister Rekha Gupta announced on Monday that the capital will launch a Yamuna ferry service ahead of the upcoming Chhath Puja (Nov 13‑16). The one‑hour cruise will run between Sonia Vihar and Jagatpur, covering a 5‑km stretch of the river. The vessel – a 40‑foot catamaran‑style boat labelled "Namo Yamuna" – is already stationed at the Sonia Vihar sports club.
Who is involved
- Rekha Gupta, Chief Minister of Delhi – announced the launch and described the riverfront area as a future picnic spot for families.
- Inspiration Marine Pvt Ltd, Mumbai‑based shipbuilder – supplied the Island Boats 40 (IB 40) craft.
- Delhi government officials – provided details on the route, ticket price and infrastructure.
- Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) – the ferry was originally slated for a Feb 20 launch to mark the party’s first year in power, but work delays pushed it back.
How it fits Delhi's transport plans
The ferry adds a new dimension to Delhi’s urban mobility mix, complementing the expanding Metro network and bus corridors. By turning a 5‑km river stretch into a passenger‑friendly corridor, the government hopes to reduce road congestion and promote river‑side tourism. The project is part of a larger 52‑km riverfront development slated for two phases, aiming to create green, recreational spaces along the Yamuna.
What comes next
Gupta inspected the service at the Sonia Vihar sports club and later visited Sur Ghat, where Chhath rituals will be performed. She said the ferry will commence “a few days before Chhath Puja” to allow families to combine worship with a scenic river cruise. Ticketing counters and waiting lounges are being set up at both jetties, and fares are expected to be around ₹500 per passenger. The administration plans to monitor ridership and explore additional routes once the pilot proves successful.
Key numbers
| Item | Figure | Note |
|---|---|---|
| Launch window | Early November 2024 (a few days before Chhath) | CM statement |
| Route length | 5 km | Government officials |
| Cruise duration | ~1 hour | Government officials |
| Ticket price | ~₹500 per person | Government officials |
| Vessel model | Island Boats 40 (IB 40), 40‑ft catamaran | Inspiration Marine |
The ferry’s debut underscores Delhi’s commitment to leveraging its waterways for public transport, leisure and economic activity, reinforcing the city’s image as a modern, stable metropolis.
Key numbers
| What | Figure | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Launch timing | Early November 2024, a few days before Chhath Puja | Chief Minister Rekha Gupta |
| Route length | 5 km | Delhi government officials |
| Cruise duration | Approximately 1 hour | Delhi government officials |
| Ticket price | Around ₹500 per person | Delhi government officials |
| Vessel name | "Namo Yamuna" | Chief Minister Rekha Gupta |
| Vessel model | Island Boats 40 (IB 40), 40‑foot catamaran | Inspiration Marine Pvt Ltd |
In this story
| Name | Role in the story |
|---|---|
| Rekha Gupta | Delhi chief minister who announced the ferry launch |
| Delhi Government | Responsible for the ferry project and riverfront development |
