CM: CNG boats to boost tourism, economy in Shringverpur Dham

Prayagraj: Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath, during his visit to Shringverpur Dham on Thursday, announced plans to empower Nishad and fishermen communities, ensuring their inclusive growth.

On Nishadraj Jayanti, the CM announced plans to introduce modern CNG-powered boats to boost earnings of local boatmen and strengthen regional tourism. The Shringverpur Dham, once a symbol of social harmony, is now emerging as a major tourism hub among visitors. The state government is not only enhancing Shringverpur Dham's infrastructure and basic facilities, but also preserving its rich heritage and uplifting the Nishad and fishermen communities.

President of the Prayagraj Boatmen Association Pappu Lal Nishad highlighted that over 6,000 Nishad families in Prayagraj, including Shringaverpur, rely on boating for their livelihood. "The shift to CNG boats will reduce physical effort, allow more trips, and significantly increase incomes," he stated.

Both the state govt and the Centre are running several welfare and self-reliance schemes for the Nishad and fishermen communities. CM Yogi, on Thursday, distributed Rs 3.20 crore in loans to 1,100 boatmen under the Nishad Raj Boat Subsidy Scheme, Rs 20 crore to 1,400 fishermen under the Matsya Sampada Scheme, and Rs 138 crore through the Kisan Credit Card. Local beneficiaries including Rahul Nishad and Kamlesh Nishad expressed gratitude for the assistance.

The CM also honoured and felicitated trained guides, boatmen, and homestay operators with certificates of recognition, reinforcing the government's commitment to making Shringverpur a beacon of tourism-driven economic prosperity.

Recognizing that the boatmen and fishermen community largely lack alternative sources of income, the Yogi government has taken a groundbreaking step by providing skill training in storytelling and tourism services. This initiative, successfully implemented during Maha Kumbh, has significantly improved their lives.

As part of Maha Kumbh preparations, the Tourism department had trained 1,000 guides, 409 boatmen, 580 taxi drivers, and 608 vendors. These efforts enhanced tourism services and created sustainable employment opportunities for locals. Prayagraj regional tourism officer Aparajita Singh emphasized that this initiative ensures a world-class tourist experience while providing stable livelihoods for the local workforce.