SRINAGAR: In view of adverse weather conditions in Jammu and Kashmir, the State Disaster Response Force (SDRF) has urged shikara operators on Dal Lake in Srinagar to suspend their services temporarily.
SDRF personnel were seen on a motorboat in Dal Lake announcing the halt and urging shikara operators to strictly follow the directions.
The temporary halt was to safeguard both tourists and locals as Jammu and Kashmir faces a forecast of heavy rain, snowfall, thunderstorms, and strong winds till tomorrow.
The decision follows an advisory issued by the Meteorological Centre Srinagar, warning of a spell of unsettled weather from April 19 to April 20, 2025, with the most severe impacts expected on April 19 and 20. The advisory predicts wide-ranging weather disruptions across the region.
According to the weather update:
April 19–20: The Union Territory is expected to witness generally cloudy skies with light to moderate rain and snowfall, particularly in higher altitudes. Isolated to scattered areas could experience moderate to heavy rain or snow, especially on April 19. Thunderstorms and gusty winds are also likely during this period, continuing until the evening of April 20.
April 21: Conditions are likely to remain cloudy, with light rain and thunder at scattered locations.
April 22–28: A dry spell is expected, although cloudiness may return around April 25.
Given the forecast, residents have been advised to follow all administrative and traffic advisories. The Meteorological Department has flagged a high risk of landslides, mudslides, and shooting stones in vulnerable, mountainous regions.
In rural areas, farmers have been asked to suspend all agricultural operations until April 21, owing to the uncertainty and potential damage from the unpredictable weather.
Meanwhile, SDRF officials emphasised that the halt in shikara services is a preventive step to avoid any untoward incidents on the lake, a major hub for tourism in the Valley. “Public safety is our top priority. We request full co-operation from the shikara operators and tourists until weather conditions stabilise,” an SDRF official told KINS.
The public has also been advised to remain indoors during thunderstorms or lightning events, as a safety measure. Preparedness initiatives have been scaled up across vulnerable districts, and authorities are on alert mode to respond swiftly to any weather-induced emergencies.
As the region faces this turbulent phase, authorities continue to monitor the situation closely and are urging the public to stay informed and exercise caution. (KINS)
