Srinagar, Sep 15, KNT: Operations at Shikara Ghat No. 1 in Dal Lake have been affected after members of the Shikara Owners Association of the ghat reportedly stopped work over an alleged unauthorized and unregistered ghat operating opposite their designated location.

The association has submitted an urgent application to the Vice Chairman of the Jammu and Kashmir Lake Conservation and Management Authority (LCMA), seeking an immediate inspection of the site and action over what it describes as an illegally established ghat.

Association members said around 75 shikara operators associated with Ghat No. 1 have joined the strike and that the ghat has remained closed in protest against the alleged operation of the rival facility.

In its representation to the LCMA, the association has alleged that a new ghat has been constructed and is being operated opposite the registered Ghat No. 1 without the required registration or authorization.

The association has sought verification of the status of the structure and requested the authorities to ascertain whether any permission was issued for its construction or operation.

It has also sought action against the alleged violation and restoration of the site, saying the operation of an unregistered ghat is affecting the interests of members associated with the registered ghat.

Ghat No. 1 is among the established access points for shikara services on Dal Lake. The Tourism Department has previously notified rates for shikara services from the designated ghats, including crossing charges applicable to Ghats 1 to 12.

The issue assumes significance as the authorities have previously undertaken enforcement drives around Dal Lake ghats in response to complaints concerning unauthorized activities and encroachments. In 2022, the district administration carried out an anti-encroachment drive along the Boulevard stretch from Ghat No. 1 to Ghat No. 16 following complaints from local residents, shopkeepers and shikara associations.

The association has urged the LCMA to conduct an on-site inspection and establish whether the disputed ghat has the requisite approval before allowing its operation.

The LCMA’s response to the representation and its position on the alleged registration or authorization of the new ghat was not immediately available. [KNT]

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