Varanasi: A cruise ship on the Ganga from Varanasi’s Assi Ghat to Rajghat will be operational from August 15, 2018. Built in Kolkata, the cruise will be operated by a private Nordic Cruise line.

After coming to power, Prime Minister Narendra Modi had made many promises to the people of Varanasi, one of which was a cruise across the Ganga. True to his words, Prime Minister Modi has gifted a luxury cruise to the people of the holy city.

The cruise ship is currently stationed at Khidkiya Ghat in Varanasi. Special measures have been taken to ensure the safety of this ship. It said to have a 450 horsepower engine which is soundproof, as well as a safety boat on board which can be used in emergencies.  

Apart from this, the ship will have an adequate number of life jackets and lifeguards. The ship is 2000 square feet in depth, providing space for a seminar and party hall. With respect to the spiritual nature of the city, no food items that disrespect the cultural norms of Varanasi will be allowed on the ship.

The double-storey cruise has fully air-conditioned decks where one can partake in religious ceremonies or parties. The cruise will be operational twice – once in the morning, and once during the Ganga aarti, for two hours, between the Assi Ghat and Panchganga Ghat. The operating company has said that it wishes for the Prime Minister to inaugurate the cruise himself. It will likely be operational from August 15.