The Jammu and Kashmir and Ladakh High Court at Srinagar has prohibited the operation of fuel-powered motorboats and Jet Skis on Dal Lake until further orders, citing the need to protect the lake’s ecosystem while balancing tourism activities. The order was passed on October 14, 2026, by a Division Bench comprising Chief Justice Dr. Pushpendra Singh Bhati and Justice Rajesh Sekhri.
Background
The court was hearing a writ petition filed by Mohammad Rafiq Mir and others, WP(C) No. 3196/2025, concerning the licensing and renewal process for motorboats used for tourism on Dal Lake.
The petitioners raised concerns about the absence of publicly available licensing criteria and a lack of transparency in the process. They also highlighted the need for uniform rules governing motorboats and Jet Skis, considering the potential impact of fuel-powered vessels on the lake’s environment.
The authorities acknowledged that tourism licensing had not been reviewed, although auctions had taken place for certain motorboats.
The Bench stressed that any policy governing motorised vessels must account for pollution, tourism interests and fairness among operators. It observed that solar-powered and electric boats could offer a way to reconcile tourism with the preservation of lakes.
The court noted,
“This court is not hesitant to observe that solar boats and electric boats could be a solution for balancing the equities between tourism and the sustenance of lakes.”
The Bench also emphasised the need for a scientific and expert-led approach to licensing, particularly where motorised vessels are concerned.
The High Court directed the Lakes Conservation and Management Authority (LCMA), Tourism Department and Police to ensure that no fuel-powered motorboat, including motorised shikaras, or Jet Ski operates on Dal Lake until further orders. Any violation would be treated as contempt of court, and the concerned officers were directed to prevent such operations.
Boats used for emergency services, law and order, disaster management and safety were exempted. The authorities were directed to prepare a comprehensive policy in consultation with experts and examine whether conventional motorisation could be replaced with solar-powered electric engines.
The matter was listed for October 30, 2026.
