Srinagar: Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah said the government is fully committed to safeguarding the interests of those whose livelihood depends on Dal Lake, while ensuring its sustainable preservation as an ecological treasure.
He made these remarks while interacting with a deputation of Dal dwellers, including representatives of the Houseboat Owners Association, Shikara Owners Union, and other residents of the lake area, who met him today to flag their long-pending issues and seek intervention.
The meeting was aimed at addressing key grievances and discussing sustainable livelihood solutions for communities whose lives are intertwined with the Dal Lake ecosystem.
The Chief Minister assured the delegation that their concerns would be looked into seriously and addressed on priority. He said that protecting both the traditional livelihoods and the ecological health of Dal Lake is a dual responsibility the government is committed to fulfilling.
The interaction was attended by Advisor to the Chief Minister Nasir Aslam Wani, MLA Zadibal Tanvir Sadiq, Additional Chief Secretary to the CM Dheeraj Gupta, Director General Fire & Emergency Services, Commissioner Secretaries of Tourism, Housing & Urban Development, Forest, Ecology & Environment, Director Tourism, and senior officers from LCMA and Srinagar Development Authority.
MLA Tanvir Sadiq provided a detailed briefing to the Chief Minister on the issues raised by the visiting delegation.
The president of the Houseboat Owners Association voiced concerns over the prolonged delay in renewal of licenses and the absence of rehabilitation support for houseboat owners willing to relocate from River Jhelum and Chounti Khul. He also urged for promotional space at Srinagar Airport and Railway Station to market houseboats as a unique tourism offering and demanded renovation of the Chinar Bagh facility.
Fire safety was another major concern, with the association calling for the establishment of a dedicated fire station near Nigeen Lake due to repeated incidents affecting houseboats.
Dal dwellers pressed for the urgent repair of wooden culverts and footbridges, especially ahead of Muharram processions, and sought improvements in essential services like ration supply and sanitation in lake interiors.
Shikara owners highlighted the poor condition of ghats and jetties along the lake’s edge and requested their immediate restoration to support daily operations and tourism activities.
Chief Minister Omar Abdullah reiterated his government’s commitment to addressing all genuine concerns of the lake communities. He said preserving the heritage and livelihoods of Dal Lake is as important as protecting its fragile ecosystem, and assured that the administration will take necessary steps without delay.
