Delhi Govt Plans ₹6.2 Crore VIP Boats for Yamuna Inspections

The Delhi government is planning to buy two high-end boats with air-conditioned cabins, spending around ₹6.2 crore, to facilitate VIP inspections along the Yamuna. The proposal comes through a tender issued by the Irrigation and Flood Control (I&FC) department on March 12.

According to the tender, two “air-conditioned boats with enclosed cabins for VVIPs/VIPs” will be procured, each estimated to cost about ₹3.10 crore. The bidding process is set to close on March 19, and once a supplier is finalised, delivery is expected within five months, reported by the Hindustan Times.

A senior official from the I&FC department, speaking on condition of anonymity, said the move is linked to the government’s ongoing focus on cleaning the Yamuna, which requires regular inspections by senior officials.
“These boats will be equipped with all amenities to facilitate these visits. In an emergency, they can also be used for rescue operations,” the official said.

As per the specifications, each boat will accommodate 16 to 20 people and measure about 13 metres in length, 4.3 metres in width, and 2.1 metres in height. They will be fitted with rooftop marine air conditioners, business-class style push-back seats, a pantry, washrooms, and a fresh water storage capacity of 400 litres.

The design also includes an open rear deck meant for VIP appearances, with sofa-style seating for three to four people. The interiors are planned with customised seating made of vegan leather, wooden-finish hand rests, bottle holders, and ambient LED lighting to give a premium look.

In terms of performance, the boats will run on 300 HP four-stroke engines, with fuel tanks holding between 700 and 1,000 litres, along with diesel generators for power supply. Each vessel, with an approximate full-load displacement of 12 tonnes, is expected to reach speeds of up to 25 knots.

Safety features listed in the tender include tracking systems, VHF radio communication, fire pumps, emergency medical equipment, and depth sounders capable of measuring up to 500 metres. The selected supplier will also be responsible for maintenance and spare parts for two years.

At present, the I&FC department relies on hired boats for various activities, including surveys, rescue work, monsoon monitoring, and inspections during festivals like Chhath. These boats have also been used during visits by dignitaries such as the Lieutenant Governor, according to the department’s recent annual report.

Separately, the Delhi government recently procured a 40-seater vessel for a proposed cruise service between Sonia Vihar and Jagatpur. The project aims to introduce recreational cruises and ferry services on the Yamuna, although its launch, earlier expected in February, has been delayed.
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