The Jammu and Kashmir High Court has prohibited the operation of fuel-powered motorboats and jet skis in Dal Lake until further orders, warning that any violation of the directive will amount to contempt of court.

A Division Bench comprising Chief Justice Dr Pushpendra Singh Bhati and Justice Rajesh Sekhri directed the Lakes Conservation and Management Authority (LCMA), Tourism Department and Police to ensure strict enforcement of the prohibition. The Court also asked the government to explore the possibility of introducing solar-powered electric engines for boats operating in the lake.

The order was passed while hearing a petition highlighting the potential damage caused by motorboats and jet skis to Dal Lake’s ecosystem. The petitioner called for a uniform regulatory and protective framework to address the environmental concerns associated with their operation.

“Taking a comprehensive view of the submissions made, it is directed that the respondent authorities LCMA, Tourism, and Police shall ensure that no motorboat, whether it be a shikara motorboat, or Jet Ski which operates by fuel, is operated in the Dal Lake until further orders,” the Court said.

The Bench clarified that motorboats used by the administration and other authorities for emergency services, law and order, disaster management and safety purposes would remain exempt from the prohibition.

Emphasising strict compliance, the Court warned that any unauthorised operation of motorised boats would be treated as contempt of its order. It directed the concerned officials to take a strict view of any violations and ensure that such operations are immediately restricted and prohibited.

The Court further directed the government to formulate a comprehensive policy governing the operation of motorised boats in Dal Lake, with a view to addressing environmental concerns while regulating their use.