Excelsior Correspondent
Srinagar, Mar 6: The Shikara Wallas, who offer scenic boat rides on the tranquil waters of Manasbal Lake in central Kashmir’s Ganderbal district today, demanded timber for the repair and construction of their boats.
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Highlighting the critical need for immediate repairs to ensure tourist safety and to create more job opportunities for local youth, the boatmen emphasise that only deodar timber is suitable for these tasks. They said that despite their repeated appeals to the government for assistance, their pleas have gone unanswered.
“We implored the government to provide us with timber for boat repairs, as our livelihoods hang in the balance. Without this support, we risk losing our only source of income,” Abdul Qayoom Dar, a seasoned boatman, said.
There are approximately 80 shikaras currently operating on the lake, each requiring varying degrees of maintenance, and the need for timber is pressing. “We eagerly await the arrival of tourists, and by expanding our fleet, we aim to attract more young individuals to join this profession,” another boatman, said.
Resident Parvez Ahmad reiterated the longstanding plight of the boatmen, emphasising their consistent requests for timber. “The government must act swiftly to provide the necessary resources for boat repairs and construction,” he said.
Acknowledging the gravity of the situation, Executive Officer Ganderbal Development Authority, Ghulam Mohammad Bhat, said that efforts are underway to address the issue. “We have raised the matter with the Divisional Forest Officer, recognising the boatmen’s need for deodar timber. The process has commenced, and we anticipate the timber to be available within a month. Tourism remains a top priority for the government, and Manasbal is already receiving significant promotion,” he said.
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