Delhi is set to introduce the “Namo Yamuna” ferry service just in time for Chhath Puja, as announced by Chief Minister Rekha Gupta. The service is scheduled to begin a few days before the festival, which is celebrated from November 13 to 16. This new initiative aims to enhance the experience for both locals and visitors during the religious festivities.
Chief Minister Gupta recently visited the Sonia Vihar Sports Club to inspect the ferry and later toured Sur Ghat, a key location for Chhath celebrations. The area is being transformed into a family-friendly picnic spot, where attendees can enjoy the serene riverside environment while participating in the traditional prayers to the Yamuna River.
The ferry will offer a one-hour cruise between Sonia Vihar and Jagatpur, covering a distance of approximately five kilometers along the Yamuna. Passengers will have the opportunity to view the ghats and the picturesque natural landscapes lining the riverbanks. Tickets for the ferry are expected to be priced at around ₹500 per person.
The launch of the ferry service was initially planned for February 20 but faced delays due to incomplete project work. The facilities on the ferry’s jetties will include boarding areas, ticket counters, and waiting spaces to accommodate passengers.
The vessel, known as Island Boats 40 (IB 40), was constructed by Mumbai-based Inspiration Marine Pvt Ltd. Its catamaran-style hull is designed to offer stability, making it suitable for navigating the shallower sections of the Yamuna River.