The Jammu and Kashmir administration on Tuesday made life jackets mandatory for shikaras or smaller boats in the Dal, Nigeen lakes and other water bodies of the region for the safety of tourists.
“In order to ensure the safety of tourists taking shikara rides in Dal and Nigeen lakes and other water bodies and to prevent any untoward incident in view of inclement weather conditions or any other reasons, it is hereby ordered that as provided in the J&K Tourism Policy guidelines, each shikara boat registered under J&K Tourist Trade Act, 1978 shall maintain the availability of a minimum of three life-saving Jackets of recommended quality and specifications in the boat, at all times,” a government order said.
It said the registration of shikaras under the said Act would be cancelled if the direction was not abided by.
