News Brief
Uttar Pradesh: Yamuna Waterway Between Gokul And Vrindavan Set To Launch With Solar-Powered Boats
River Cruise (representative image)
The Yamuna waterway project connecting the sacred towns of Gokul and Vrindavan is edging closer to realisation, with solar-powered boats expected to commence operations soon, IANS reported.
Spearheaded by the Uttar Pradesh Braj Teerth Vikas Parishad (UPBTVP) and the Inland Waterways Authority of India (IWAI), the initiative aims to blend religious tourism, environmental conservation, and regional development.
In a recent high-level virtual meeting chaired by IWAI Chairman Vijay Kumar, stakeholders from the municipal corporation, irrigation department, and environmental bodies convened to review progress.
The officials confirmed that eight jetties would be built during the first phase, with some set for completion by the end of May. A total of 11 jetties will be developed along the 22 km route between Vasudev Vatika in Gokul and Jugal Kishore Ghat in Vrindavan.
Chairman Vijay Kumar stated that construction of the jetties is already underway. However, in view of shallow river stretches and navigational challenges, he clarified that larger vessels will not be used.
Instead, the waterway will host lightweight fibre boats powered by solar and battery systems, an environmentally conscious decision.
Mishra also highlighted the obstruction caused by pontoon bridges at Devraha Baba Ghat and Keshi Ghat, which are under review by a designated technical team.
A joint committee will conduct a detailed survey to address water level issues, while the local Assistant Regional Transport Office (ARTO) will oversee boat registrations.
Meanwhile, UPBTVP CEO Shyam Bahadur Singh noted that tenders have been issued for developing public amenities around the upcoming jetties. Local boat operators will also be allowed to use these facilities, he said.
The waterway project carries a total estimated cost of Rs 28.35 crore. While the IWAI is in charge of jetty construction, the Mathura-Vrindavan Development Authority (MVDA) will handle the development of infrastructure and approach roads.
