After Delhi, Jammu and Kashmir looks to boost river cruise tourism; signs pact with Inland Waterways Authority

Recently the Delhi revealed that it would focus on revitalising the Yamuna River, with plans to launch a cruise service between Sonia Vihar and Jagatpur for tourism purposes. According to officials who spoke to PTI, the proposal includes developing a six-kilometre stretch of the Yamuna, extending from the Wazirabad barrage (Sonia Vihar) to Jagatpur (near the Shani temple), for cruise operations aimed at tourists.

Following the announcement, the Jammu and Kashmir government signed a pact with the Inland Waterways Authority of India to enhance river cruise tourism on three national waterways within the Union Territory. The move is aimed at giving a boost to tourism and generate employment an official statement read.

A memorandum of understanding was signed on the sidelines of the Chintan Shivir in Srinagar, in the presence of Union Minister of Ports, Shipping and Waterways Sarbananda Sonowal. The agreement focused on providing a new mode of leisure and budget tourism on local rivers. J&K is home to three national waterways out of 111 declared across the country that include Chenab, Jhelum and Ravi.

Also read | Jammu and Kashmir to develop Bungus Valley as an offbeat tourism hotspot

Under the new partnership, IWAI will develop waterside infrastructure, including 10 floating jetties, and landside infrastructure including waiting halls and other amenities for cruise passengers. Two floating jetties will be installed at Akhnoor and Reasi, located on the banks of River Chenab near Jammu, while seven jetties will be placed at strategic locations in Srinagar and Bandipora along Jhelum, including Pantha Chowk, Zero Bridge, Amira Kadal, Shah-e-Hamdan, Safa Kadal/Chattabal Shrine, Sumbal Bridge, and Gund Prang, PTI reported. Additionally, one jetty will be established at Sohar on River Ravi.

According to reports, IWAI will focus on enhancing navigability on these waterways, carrying out dredging where necessary, and providing navigational aid to ensure safe vessel movement. Authorities will conduct regular hydrographic surveys to maintain safe and efficient cruise operations.

Also read | Srinagar Heritage Festival reviving cultural heritage of Jammu and Kashmir

Meanwhile, the J&K government said that it will provide land for the construction of landside facilities and facilitate statutory clearances. It will be responsible for appointing cruise operators for identified sectors of the three national waterways. The collaboration is expected to transform the region’s river cruise tourism, offering locals and tourists a unique experience while contributing to the region’s economic development.