State-of-the-Art Cruise at Mahakumbh's Grandeur | 28 Nov 2024

Why in News?

The Uttar Pradesh government is preparing for Mahakumbh 2025, adding a new attraction, the Nishadraj cruise.

Key Points

  • Launch of Nishadraj Cruise:
    • The Nishadraj cruise, managed by the Inland Waterways Authority of India (IWAI), has begun its journey from Varanasi to Prayagraj.
    • The cruise is equipped with modern amenities, reflecting the state's commitment to innovation and excellence.
    • There is ongoing coordination between the Prayagraj Mela Authority and the Varanasi administration for the cruise's journey.
  • Inauguration:
    • The Prime Minister is scheduled to visit Mahakumbh on 13th December 2024.
    • At Shrungverpur Dham, the PM will unveil statues of Lord Ram and Nishadraj before boarding the Nishadraj cruise for a journey from Arail to the Sangam.
    • Upon reaching the Sangam, he will perform a ritual bath and pay homage to the sacred Ganga River.
      • The itinerary includes a Ganga Aarti, visits to the Bade Hanuman Temple and Akshayavat, and interactions with prominent saints and spiritual leaders at the Parade Ground.

Inland Waterways Authority of India

  • The Inland Waterways Authority of India (IWAI) is a statutory body under the Inland Waterways Authority of India (IWAI) Act, 1985.
  • It was established in 1986 under the Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways for development and regulation of inland waterways for shipping and navigation.
  • It is headquartered in Noida, Uttar Pradesh and its main function is to build necessary infrastructure in inland waterways, surveying economic feasibility of new projects and also carrying out administration and regulation.
  • As per the National Waterways Act, 2016, 111 waterways have been declared as National Waterways.