SRINAGAR: In response to the rising number of tourists in the Valley, the Tourism Department Kashmir has implemented strict safety guidelines for shikara operators navigating Dal Lake and other local water bodies.
The Deputy Director of Tourism, in a directive issued on Friday, emphasized the need for immediate compliance with safety protocols. These include mandatory registration of shikaras, availability of life-saving equipment, adherence to passenger limits, and following weather-related advisories.
“With the growing tourist footfall and frequent operation of shikaras and other boats in Dal Lake and nearby waters, it has become essential to strictly enforce safety regulations,” reads the official order from the Deputy Director, Tourism Registration Kashmir. “To safeguard passengers and promote responsible boating practices, the following instructions are to be followed without delay by all shikara operators.”
According to the order:
- Shikara Registration: All shikaras must be officially registered with the Tourism Department. Registered boats must clearly display their registration numbers. Any vessel found operating without valid registration will be seized immediately.
- Life Jackets Mandatory: Shikara operators are required to carry a sufficient number of life jackets for all passengers on board. In cases where children aged between 1 and 12 years are present, appropriately sized life jackets must also be available.
The Tourism Department has indicated that random inspections will be conducted to ensure strict adherence to these new guidelines, aimed at enhancing the safety of tourists engaging in water-based activities.
