By Mewati Sitaram
Uttar Pradesh is enhancing its tourism offerings with the launch of catamaran and mini cruise services, offering visitors to Ayodhya, Kashi, and Mathura a unique post-monsoon experience. The Uttar Pradesh State Tourism Development Corporation has introduced these services to showcase the scenic beauty of these historic cities from the water, with operations set to resume after the monsoon.
Modern catamarans supplied by the Inland Waterways Authority of India (IWAI) will operate in Ayodhya and Kashi, while Prayagraj will feature mini cruises. The air-conditioned catamarans in Ayodhya can accommodate 50 passengers, and Prayagraj’s mini cruises will seat 30 each. Additionally, six motorboats and two rescue boats have been allocated for emergencies.
The state is utilizing a public-private partnership model to manage these services, with regular operations expected to begin soon. This initiative is part of a broader strategy to boost tourism, create jobs, promote eco-friendly travel, and attract visitors to the state’s rich cultural and historical landmarks.
“We are actively pursuing a range of projects, including rural tourism, agri-tourism, and water sports. The potential for water tourism in Uttar Pradesh is immense, and the introduction of these catamarans is just the beginning.” He highlighted that last year, over 480 million tourists explored the state’s diverse offerings, which encompass religious, spiritual, and eco-tourism sites, said Jaiveer Singh, Uttar Pradesh’s Minister for Tourism and Culture.
Mukesh Kumar Meshram, Principal Secretary of UP Tourism and Culture, remarked, “The launch of catamaran services in Uttar Pradesh, as announced by our esteemed Tourism Minister, is a bold initiative that will elevate our tourism sector. UP Tourism is experiencing remarkable growth across all areas, and we are committed to providing exceptional services to both international and domestic tourists.”
Editor in Chief : Mewati SItaram
