Open Letter to Yogi Adityanath on Urgent Boat Safety Measures in Uttar Pradesh

Hon’ble Chief Minister Shri Yogi Adityanath Ji,
I respectfully wish to draw your attention to the urgent need for stricter safety measures for boat operations across the rivers of Uttar Pradesh, especially in light of recent tragic incidents in Vrindavan, Mathura.
Every day, thousands of citizens, pilgrims, and tourists travel by boats on sacred rivers like the Ganga and Yamuna. Unfortunately, frequent accidents and negligence continue to put innocent lives at serious risk. I humbly request your kind intervention to ensure the safety and protection of all passengers.
I would like to propose the following measures:
1. Strict Accountability of Boat Operators
Boat operators must be held fully responsible for passenger safety.
Overloading should be strictly prohibited, with clearly defined and enforced passenger limits.
2. Mandatory Safety Standards
Safety regulations aligned with international marine guidelines (such as SOLAS standards) should be implemented for river transport.
Every boat must carry life jackets for 100% of passengers.
3. Regular Safety Inspections & Insurance
All boats must undergo routine safety inspections.
Valid insurance should be mandatory for both boats and passengers.
4. Certified Crew Requirement
Each boat should have at least three trained crew members:
One certified driver
One engine mechanic
One helper
All crew must possess approved basic safety training certifications.
5. Police Monitoring & Enforcement
Local police should ensure strict compliance with safety norms before allowing boats to operate.
6. Licensing & Legal Action
Boat operators must have valid certified licenses.
Any violation, negligence, or false information should lead to strict legal action.
7. NDRF & Emergency Deployment
NDRF or emergency response teams must be deployed near major ghats and riverbanks—not only during events but also in high-risk areas like Varanasi.
8. Boat Design & Safety Specifications
Boats used for public transport must meet minimum design and stability standards (e.g., safe length limits up to 20 meters).
Emergency contact numbers should be clearly displayed on both sides of every boat.
Recent incidents in Vrindavan highlight the urgent need for accountability and reform. I request strict action against those responsible and a transparent response from the administration to restore public trust.
Respected Sir, the lives of our citizens and tourists are extremely valuable. With strong policies and strict implementation, such tragic accidents can be prevented, ensuring safer river travel for everyone.
I sincerely hope you will take immediate action on this matter.
Sincerely
Captain Rajvinder Sharma District Jalandhar