Uttar Pradesh is on the brink of a new era in tourism, aiming to launch water excursions comparable to those found in Goa and Kerala. Modern open catamaran boats are set to begin operations in the iconic cities of Ayodhya, Kashi, and Mathura. The Uttar Pradesh State Tourism Corporation has officially requested these boats from the Inland Waterways Authority of India (IWAI), marking a significant step in the state’s growing tourism offerings.
Jaiveer Singh, the state’s tourism and culture minister, highlighted the tremendous growth in tourism, revealing that over 480 million tourists visited renowned religious, spiritual, eco, and other attractions last year. “We are actively working on diverse tourism initiatives including rural tourism, agri-tourism, and water sports. Uttar Pradesh has enormous potential for water sports, and we are making substantial progress in its development,” he stated.
Efforts are underway to provide facilities on par with those in Goa, Kerala, and other states known for water sports. As part of this plan, an agreement has been signed with the IWAI for the delivery of six catamaran boats, including two for each of Ayodhya, Kashi, and Mathura.
So far, one catamaran boat each has been delivered to Ayodhya and Kashi, with a capacity of 50 passengers. To enhance the tourist experience, the Uttar Pradesh State Tourism Corporation has requested that future catamarans be open-air with features like a deck, pantry, toilets, and other necessary facilities. These enhancements will allow visitors to fully appreciate the picturesque rivers and their surroundings.
Singh also proclaimed, “Tourists from across India and the globe will have numerous options to explore in the state.” Soon, visitors will be able to partake in refreshing water excursions while enjoying the beautiful landscapes of Ayodhya, Kashi, and Mathura with the introduction of the open catamaran boats.
In addition to the catamarans, the IWAI has also handed over electric boats to Prayagraj, further broadening the state’s water travel options. This contribution includes two mini-cruise boats, each seating 30 passengers, six motorboats for six tourists each, and two rescue boats. All boats are anticipated to be operational after the monsoon season.
With these new developments, Uttar Pradesh is poised to deliver a unique water tourism experience, sustaining its momentum as one of India’s premier destinations for both domestic and international visitors, according to a recent release.
Published on Sep 19, 2024, at 07:00 PM IST