To boost religious tourism, Uttar Pradesh will expand electric-based adventure water activities and boat ride facilities in Ayodhya and Varanasi.
The Yogi Adityanath government is in the process of operating specialized electric boats in the two religious towns soon.
Under the scheme, an air-conditioned electric boat with a 50-seat capacity and two electric boats with 30-seat capacities each will be operated from Nayaghat on river Saryu in Ayodhya.
In Varanasi, a 50-seat air-conditioned electric boat will soon be available for tourists at Ravidas Ghat on river Ganga.
Docking and charging facilities for these boats will be provided at the respective ghats.
The Uttar Pradesh State Tourism Development Corporation (UPSTDC) will manage the operation of these boats through agency determination and work allocation.
Initially, the boats will operate under a 10-year lease, adhering strictly to the guidelines set by the UP tourism department, the Inland Vessel Act, and international standards.
Additionally, the Adventure Tour Operators Association of India’s guidelines will be followed to promote electric-based adventure water activities.