New Delhi [India], March 5 (ANI): Delhi Minister Parvesh Sahib Singh Verma on Wednesday emphasised the plans of the government to promote tourist activities on the Yamuna river and stated that the government is planning to run a ferry service here for which they will also sign an MoU.

Earlier on March 2, the Delhi government had announced plans to enhance tourism and promote sustainable water transport by introducing a ferry and cruise service along a 7-8 km stretch of the Yamuna. The service will operate between Wazirabad Barrage (Sonia Vihar) and Jagatpur (Shani Temple).

When asked if cleaning of Yamuna will attract tourism to Delhi, Minister Parvesh Sahib Singh said, ' Our proposal is there to run ferry here, we will sign the MoU for it. Now, ferry will be run on one stretch only...there will be only one pick-up and drop point. There will be a restaurant as well in the Ferry. Our purpose is to attract people towards Yamuna...'

The Minister further elaborated the government's initiatives on the cleaning of the river and stated that the development of the Yamuna Riverfront has already begun, adding that the government will increase the capacity of the existing STPs (Sewage Treatment Plants) and new STPs will be set up in industrial areas.

Verma also appealed to people not to throw garbage into the river.

'We will increase the capacity of the existing STPs (Sewage Treatment Plants) and install new ones so that the waste coming into Yamuna, it can be treated before that...New STPs will be set up in industrial areas. If any complaints arise, strict action will be taken...We will complete this work within two years. The development of the Yamuna Riverfront has already begun...All the landmarks have been identified, and any encroachments will be removed. I appeal to the people of Delhi not to throw garbage into the river...' the Minister stated.

Earlier today, Parvesh Sahib Singh Verma visited the Yamuna River and took a boat ride from Boat Club to Chhath Ghat. He also held discussions with officials as he inspected the river.

Cleaning the Yamuna has been a key promise of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) in the national capital, with the river frequently witnessing toxic foam in certain areas. The issue has sparked allegations between the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) and BJP over the river's condition during campaign. (ANI)