Ayodhya: Solar-Powered Ferry Service To Be Introduced On Saryu River In The Temple Town

Tourists will soon be able to hop on solar ferries to travel along the banks of Saryu river in Ayodhya.

The Ayodhya Development Authority (ADA) has floated bids to induct 10 solar ferries to take the tourists around the temple town.

Located along the banks of Saryu in Uttar Pradesh, Ayodhya is one of the most venerable cities of ancient India and is the birthplace of Lord Ram, as mentioned in the great Indian epic Ramayan. It is also the first of the seven most important pilgrimage sites (Mokshdayini Sapt Puris) for the Hindus.

Approximately, 2 crore tourists visit Ayodhya every year as per the data of UP state government. The city is anticipated to become a global tourist destination after opening of the Ram Mandir in January 2024.

One of the most prominent waterways in Uttar Pradesh, the Saryu finds mention in ancient Hindu scriptures.

Literally translating to 'that which is streaming', it flows through Ayodhya and is thronged by hundreds of devotees who come here to take a holy dip throughout the year on various religious occasions. 

The move to deploy swanky solar ferries on Saryu will help tap foreign tourists and those looking for a luxurious tour on the river.

IRS Certified Ferry

The capacity of the ferries will range between six to 50 individuals. According to the bid documents, the management company will have to provide two ferries with a capacity of six-eight passengers, three ferries with a capacity of 12-15 passengers, four ferries with a capacity of 24-30 passengers and one ferry having a capacity of 45-50 passengers.

The ferries will have a GPS navigation system and a maximum speed of 8 knots. The ferries equipped with solar panels on the top will also have state-of-the art lithium battery.

All the ferries should must comply with the Indian Register of Shipping (IRS) certification.

The agency operating the solar ferries will bear all the maintenance cost of these ferries.  A minimum tenure of five years will be offered to the agency which may be extended up to 15 years.

Allaying Livelihood Concerns

The tour of the Saryu ghats on steamers is extremely popular among visitors, and hundreds of families enjoy the boat rides on a daily basis.

However, there are reports of discontent brewing among the existing boatmen who have been earning their livelihood by operating these steamer boats. As such, the authority had assured that the local residents will get job opportunities through the new venture.

"The agency will run the business. But the local boys and boatmen will get jobs. It will be good for the community if more activity is encouraged over the Saryu river," said an ADA official.