Srinagar, Oct 15: The Jammu and Kashmir and Ladakh High Court has barred the operation of all fuel-powered motorboats, including motorised shikaras and Jet Skis, on Dal Lake until further orders, citing environmental concerns and the need to balance tourism with lake conservation.

A Division Bench comprising Chief Justice Dr Pushpendra Singh Bhati and Justice Rajesh Sekhri issued the directions while hearing a petition filed by Mohammad Rafiq Mir and others (WP(C) No. 3196/2025) concerning the licensing and renewal of motorboat permits on Dal Lake.
The petitioners raised concerns over the lack of publicly available licensing criteria, transparency in the grant of permits and the environmental impact of motorised vessels.
Emphasising the need for a scientific and expert-led approach, the Bench observed that solar-powered and electric boats could help strike a balance between tourism and the preservation of lakes.
The court directed the Lakes Conservation and Management Authority (LCMA), Tourism Department and Police to ensure strict compliance with the ban. Any violation of the order would invite contempt proceedings, and the concerned authorities were directed to prevent such operations.
However, boats deployed for emergency services, law and order, disaster management and safety have been exempted from the restrictions.
The Bench also directed the authorities to formulate a comprehensive policy governing motorised boats in consultation with experts and examine the feasibility of replacing conventional fuel-powered engines with solar-powered or electric alternatives.
The matter has been listed for further hearing on October 30, 2026