Gokul-Vrindavan Waterway Opens: Solar-Powered Boat Service Starts by Month-End.

The ambitious Yamuna waterway project, aimed at enhancing connectivity and promoting eco-friendly tourism between the holy towns of Gokul and Vrindavan, is on the verge of becoming a reality. Solar-powered boat services are expected to commence operations on this stretch soon, marking a significant step forward for the initiative.

Spearheaded by the Uttar Pradesh Braj Teerth Vikas Parishad (UPBTVP) and the Inland Waterways Authority of India (IWAI), the first phase of the project will involve the construction of eight jetties. Officials are aiming to complete some of these crucial docking points by the end of May.

The progress of the project was recently reviewed in an online meeting chaired by IWAI Chairman Vijay Kumar, with participation from officials representing UPBTVP, the municipal corporation, the irrigation department, and environmental experts. During the meeting, it was finalized that the 22-kilometer waterway connecting Vasudev Vatika in Gokul to Jugal Kishore Ghat in Vrindavan will feature a total of eleven jetties. In the initial phase, three jetties will be located in Mathura and five in Vrindavan.

IWAI Chairman Vijay Kumar confirmed that the construction of the jetties is already underway. Addressing the navigational challenges posed by shallow stretches and limitations in the Yamuna's depth, it was decided that larger vessels would not be feasible. Instead, lightweight fiber boats, powered by a combination of solar energy and battery systems, will be deployed for the service, ensuring an environmentally sustainable mode of transport.

To tackle the issue of low water levels at specific points along the waterway, a joint committee comprising relevant experts will conduct a detailed survey to identify potential solutions. Furthermore, the registration of the boats will be managed through the local Assistant Regional Transport Office (ARTO).

UPBTVP Vice President Shailja Kant Mishra emphasized the critical need to strictly avoid the use of diesel and petrol-powered boats to maintain the ecological integrity of the Yamuna. He also raised concerns regarding the existing pontoon bridges at Devraha Baba Ghat and Keshi Ghat, which currently impede smooth navigation along the waterway. A dedicated technical team has been tasked with finding viable solutions to this obstruction.

Meanwhile, UPBTVP CEO Shyam Bahadur Singh announced that tenders have been issued for the development of essential public amenities in the vicinity of the proposed jetties. Importantly, local boat operators will also be permitted to utilize these facilities, a move aimed at promoting local livelihoods and integrating the existing boating community into the new initiative.

The Yamuna waterway project has a total estimated cost of ₹28.35 crore. The IWAI will be responsible for overseeing the construction of the jetties, while the Mathura-Vrindavan Development Authority (MVDA) will undertake the development of public infrastructure and the construction of access roads leading to these docking points. The imminent launch of the solar-powered boat service marks a significant step towards realizing a cleaner, more efficient, and environmentally conscious mode of transport for pilgrims and tourists visiting these important religious centers.