Srinagar: In order to ensure the safety of tourists, the Jammu and Kashmir government has made “Life Saving Jackets”’ mandatory for Shikara boats in Dal Lake, Nigeen lake and other water bodies of the region, officials said
“In order to ensure the safety of tourists taking Shikara rides in Dal and Nageen Lakes and other water bodies and to prevent any untoward incident in view of inclement weather conditions or any other reasons each Shikara boat registered under J&K Tourist Trade Act, 1978 shall maintain the availability of a minimum of three Life Saving Jackets”, a government order reads.
“It is hereby ordered that as provided in the J&K Tourism Policy guidelines, the jackets should be of
a recommended quality and specifications in the boat at all times, failing which the registration under the said Act shall be cancelled”, the order reads.
Due to inclement weather conditions during the past few days that triggered gusty winds in Dal Lake where dozens of Shikara were on ride alongwith tourists river Police wing of Srinagar Police rescued 21 tourists in different sorties by speed Boats.
The Tourists were stranded in Shikaras inside Dal Lake, because of sudden change in weather & gusty winds.