Jammu and Kashmir High Court bars use of shikara motorboats, jet skis on Dal lake in Srinagar
The Jammu and Kashmir High Court has issued an immediate ban on fuel-driven motorboats and jet skis on Dal Lake to curb pollution. The court has directed authorities to transition toward solar-powered and electric alternatives to balance tourism with environmental preservation.
Why it matters
This ruling sets a significant legal precedent for environmental regulation in sensitive ecological zones, forcing a shift toward sustainable tourism infrastructure.
The Jammu and Kashmir (J&K) High Court on Thursday (October 15, 2026) barred the use of motorboats, both shikara motorboats and fuel-driven jet skis, on Dal Lake, and directed the government to explore the possibility of using solar-powered e-engines.
“Taking a comprehensive view of the submissions made, it is directed that the authorities shall ensure that no motorboat, whether it be a shikara motorboat or Jet Ski which operates by fuel, is operated in the Dal Lake until further orders,” held J&K Chief Justice Dr. Pushpendra Singh Bhati and Judge Rajesh Sekhri.
The Division Bench directed the J&K Lake Conservation and Management Authority (J&K LCMA), the Tourism Department, and the J&K Police to implement the order.
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