Hans News Service New Delhi

UnionMinister for Ports, Shipping and Waterways Sarbananda Sonowal on Tuesday inaugurated a cruise service on the Yamuna at Sonia Vihar.

The project is being developed to promote river-based tourism along the Yamuna stretch upstream of the Wazirabad barrage.

The cruise will operate between Sonia Vihar and Jagatpur, covering a stretch of around 4-5 km, with each ride lasting approximately 40 minutes. The ticket has been priced at Rs 500 per person.

Chief Minister Rekha Gupta said the cruise would bring people closer to the Yamuna, giving Delhi residents an opportunity to enjoy experiences for which they often travel to other cities. Speaking at the event, she said recreational activities, along with light-and-sound shows and the cruise service, would provide people an opportunity to spend quality time with their families.

Minister of State for Ports, Shipping and Waterways Shantanu Thakur, Delhi BJP president Harsh Malhotra and other cabinet ministers were also present at the inauguration. Union minister Sonowal highlighted India's achievements over the past 12 years, particularly in the development of waterways, saying the country had made significant progress in the sector. He praised Delhi Chief Minister Gupta's leadership, saying the national capital was developing at a rapid pace despite the government being in office for a relatively short period.