Srinagar, Sep 15: Shikara operations at Ghat No. 1 on Dal Lake were disrupted after members of the Shikara Owners Association staged a protest against an alleged unauthorised and unregistered ghat operating opposite their designated facility.

The association has approached the Vice Chairman of the Jammu and Kashmir Lake Conservation and Management Authority (LCMA), seeking an immediate inspection of the site and action if the structure is found to be operating without the required approvals.
Around 75 shikara operators associated with Ghat No. 1 reportedly joined the protest, leading to the closure of the ghat.
In its representation, the association alleged that a new ghat had been constructed and was being operated opposite the registered Ghat No. 1 without registration or permission. It has urged the LCMA to verify whether the structure has the necessary approvals for construction and operation.
The association said the alleged operation of the unregistered ghat was affecting the interests of operators attached to the designated facility and sought action if any violation is established.
Ghat No. 1 is among the designated access points for shikara services on Dal Lake, where the Tourism Department has notified rates for services from designated ghats.
The dispute comes amid earlier enforcement drives against alleged unauthorised activities and encroachments around Dal Lake. The LCMA’s response to the latest representation was not immediately available.