Delhi CM Rekha Gupta Launches Namo Yamuna River Safari, 6-Km Cruise to Boost Tourism
Delhi Chief Minister Rekha Gupta on Tuesday launched the Namo Yamuna River Safari at Sonia Vihar, introducing a new eco-friendly tourism attraction in the national capital. The project offers a six-kilometre round-trip cruise between Sonia Vihar and Jagatpur, along with recreational and entertainment facilities for visitors. Union Minister Sarbananda Sonowal, Delhi Cabinet Minister Kapil Mishra and Deputy Chief Minister Parvesh Verma attended the inauguration. Following the launch, the dignitaries also took a cruise ride on the Yamuna.
Cruise, Musical Fountain and Family Entertainment
Speaking at the event, Gupta described the initiative as a reflection of people's faith, love and devotion towards Maa Yamuna. She said the facility would provide Delhi residents with a new recreational destination without having to travel to other cities. The site will feature a light and sound show, food facilities, recreational zones and activities for children and adults. Visitors will also be able to watch an evening musical fountain show depicting stories associated with Lord Krishna and the Yamuna. Kapil Mishra said more boats would be added in the future and water sports activities would also be introduced. He described the facility as an international-standard tourism destination and said it was within walking distance of Sonia Vihar Metro Station.
Centre and Delhi Government Highlight Yamuna Development
Union Minister Sarbananda Sonowal said water was essential for all living beings and highlighted Prime Minister Narendra Modi's efforts to develop India's inland waterways. He described the project as an example of cooperation between the Centre, Delhi government and local community. Gupta also highlighted infrastructure projects worth Rs 1.25 lakh crore undertaken in Delhi under the Prime Minister's leadership, in collaboration with Union Minister Nitin Gadkari, to ease traffic congestion. She said the government was working to balance environmental protection with cultural celebrations and assured residents that Chhath celebrations would be organised on a larger scale this year.
Parvesh Verma Appeals to Residents to Keep Yamuna Clean
Deputy Chief Minister Parvesh Verma said the river had gradually lost its identity over the past 20-25 years, with its condition resembling that of an open drain. He appealed to residents not to throw plastic or religious offerings into the river and urged everyone to contribute towards keeping it clean. Verma said the initiative would help revive people's cultural connection with the Yamuna while developing the riverfront as a tourism destination.
