Srinagar, July 14: The Jammu and Kashmir High Court’s recent order permitting repairs of houseboats has brought relief to owners of these floating dwellings in the city’s water bodies. However, many owners are struggling with financial constraints that prevent them from undertaking the costly repair works.
Manzoor Ahmed Pakhtoon, president of the Houseboat Owners’ Association, expressed gratitude for the court’s decision. He highlighted that the prolonged ban on repairs had left numerous houseboats in need of major and minor renovations. Pakhtoon thanked the High Court and the Lieutenant Governor for providing relief to those associated with houseboats and mentioned that the lifting of the repair ban has reignited interest in their businesses.
Pakhtoon expressed hope that pending houseboats awaiting repair and renovation would receive the necessary orders soon. He emphasized the need for a comprehensive policy for houseboats to protect the remaining ones and safeguard the industry.
One houseboat owner, Ghulam Qadir Gassi, expressed gratitude for the order but lamented its delayed arrival. He shared the unfortunate incident of his houseboat sinking into the Jhelum River, resulting in the loss of his property and belongings. Gassi, who is currently living in a tent, appealed to the authorities for assistance, citing the dire living conditions his family is facing.
Nazir Ahmed, another houseboat owner, warned that if the repair and maintenance of houseboats are neglected, they will disappear from the Kashmiri landscape. He highlighted the expensive nature of houseboat repairs and pointed out that most owners have limited incomes, primarily reliant on tourist rentals. However, tourists are deterred by the poor conditions of the houseboats, affecting the income of the owners.
Syed Abid Rasheed Shah, Secretary of the Tourism Department, acknowledged that houseboats are a heritage and a significant attraction for both domestic and inbound tourists. He mentioned that consultations with stakeholders and relevant departments had taken place to address issues related to repair, renovation, and regulatory permissions. Shah assured the owners that the department would provide necessary assistance in collaboration with other departments involved in houseboat repairs, such as the forestry department, forest corporation, and lake department.
