Delhi Government to Procure VIP Boats for Yamuna Inspections Amidst Pollution Concerns

The Delhi government is investing ₹6.2 crore (approximately $744,000 USD) in two high-end boats equipped with air-conditioned cabins and modern amenities for VIP inspections of the Yamuna River, according to a tender notice issued by the Irrigation and Flood Control (I&FC) department Hindustan Times.

Details of the Procurement

The tender, dated March 12, 2026, specifies the procurement of two “air-conditioned boats with enclosed cabin for VVIPs/VIPs,” each priced at approximately ₹3.10 crore (₹3,10,16,254). The bidding process concludes on March 19, 2026, with procurement expected within five months after a supplier is finalized Hindustan Times.

Each boat will be designed to accommodate 16 to 20 persons, measuring 13 metres in length, 4.3 metres in width and 2.1 metres in height Hindustan Times.

Features and Specifications

• Air Conditioning: Cassette-type rooftop marine air conditioners.
• Seating: Customised business class push-back VIP seats made of vegan leather.
• Pantry: Dedicated pantry for serving food.
• Facilities: Washrooms and 400 litres of fresh water storage.
• Deck: Open rear deck with sofa seating for three to four persons.
• Engine: 300 HP four-stroke engines with 700-1,000 litre fuel tanks.
• Safety: Tracking devices, VHF radio, fire pumps, emergency medical equipment, and depth sounders (up to 500 meters).

Rationale for Procurement

A senior I&FC department official, speaking anonymously, stated the boats are necessary due to the government’s increased focus on cleaning the Yamuna River, requiring frequent inspections by dignitaries Hindustan Times. The boats will also be equipped for rescue operations during emergencies.

The I&FC department currently hires boats for various purposes, including monsoon monitoring, rescue operations, and inspections during festivals like Chhath Puja Hindustan Times.

Yamuna River Pollution Context

The procurement of these boats comes as the Yamuna River continues to face severe pollution challenges. A parliamentary panel has described the Delhi stretch of the river as “lifeless” and a “man-made disaster” The Hindu. Despite decades of efforts and scrutiny from the Supreme Court and the National Green Tribunal, the water quality remains below bathing standards The Hindu.

Recent efforts to address the pollution include plans to nearly double Delhi’s sewage treatment capacity to 1,500 million gallons per day (MGD) by 2028 The Hindu.

The Delhi government recently procured a 40-seater vessel to operate a cruise service in Yamuna between Sonia Vihar and Jagatpur Hindustan Times.