New Delhi, 26 October (H.S.): The trial run of the ‘Namo Yamuna River Safari’ has commenced in Delhi, with Chief Minister Rekha Gupta inspecting the Sonia Vihar–Jagatpur route on Monday and reviewing the arrangements for the proposed tourist attraction.

During the inspection, Gupta directed officials to give particular attention to cleanliness, safety and passenger convenience. She stressed the importance of ensuring that all necessary arrangements were in place before the service opens to the public.

The Chief Minister said the government aimed to launch the service before the Chhath festival. The initiative is intended to allow Delhi residents to visit the Yamuna with their families, enjoy a cruise ride and experience a new recreational destination within the national capital.

She said the river safari was expected to promote tourism in Delhi, support local businesses and create new employment opportunities.

Delhi Tourism Minister Kapil Mishra and officials from the departments concerned were also present during the inspection.

Mishra said the trial run had begun on Monday and that the Chief Minister had reviewed the project. He described the initiative as a collaborative undertaking involving the Central Government, the Delhi Development Authority (DDA), the Delhi Government and the Tourism Department.

According to Mishra, the proposed attraction will feature a 3.5-kilometre boat ride lasting approximately 30 minutes. Other planned facilities include a musical fountain depicting the story of Maa Yamuna along the riverfront, water sports, a food park and a dedicated children's zone.

The entry fee is proposed to be Rs. 50, and the service is expected to open to the public before Chhath.

Mishra also said preparations for the grand celebration of Chhath Puja at Yamuna ghats had begun, following arrangements made for the festival last year.

The river safari is being planned as an additional recreational and tourism facility for residents, while the authorities continue preparations to accommodate devotees celebrating Chhath in the capital.

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Hindusthan Samachar / Jun Sarkar