J&K Houseboats Policy: Houseboats Moored In Nigeen, Dal Lakes To Be E-Registered Within 30 Days

Under the new policy, the houseboats will be registered online after the fulfilment of various conservation parameters within 30 days from the date notification of the policy.

(PTI Photo/S. Irfan)

The Administrative Council (AC) of J&K government has approved the roll-out of policy and guidelines for sustainable operation of houseboats in Dal and Nigeen lakes. The new policy is aimed at preserving the marine eco-system, will regulate the houseboats moored in Dal and Nigeen lakes. 

Under the new policy, the houseboats will be registered online after the fulfilment of various conservation parameters within 30 days from the date notification of the policy.

According to the officials, as per the new guidelines, the maximum number of houseboats in the twin lakes of Dal and Nigeen will be 910, as it will help in preserving the fragile ecosystem.

As per the new guidelines, all the houseboats will have to be fitted with bio-digesters for scientific treatment of solid/liquid waste  besides ensuring availability of adequate fire safety equipment along with trained staff. 

Further, the policy lays down regulations for ancillary facilities like kitchen, lodging, furniture, first-aid, electricity, power back-up, sanitary fittings and shikara for navigation.

All the new norms are aimed at providing minimum basic facilities to the tourists to be categorized on the basis of different classes of houseboats.

As per the new policy, provisions for undertaking repairs on damaged, dilapidated and abandoned houseboats, and revival of cruise boats and donga cruise has been allowed. There was a blanket ban any such repairs due to High Court judgement which bans any construction activity in the lake area.

Moreover,  an Advisory Committee under the chairmanship of Director Tourism Kashmir has been formed to look into the conservation of the lakes in relation to the functioning of the houseboats while recommending measures to increase the tourist influx in a sustainable manner

The policy bridges the aspirations of all stakeholders while complying with the directions of the High Court in the matter.