NTTA demands revival of houseboats

Srinagar: Nigeen Tourist Traders Association (NTTA) has urged the government to formulate a policy to revive houseboats as part of Kashmir’s rich heritage.

“The number of houseboats is dwindling fast. We have lost many houseboats in Jhelum, Chuntkul and Dal and Nigeen lakes. From 3,000, now around 700 houseboats have been left. Most of these houseboats are dilapidated and need repairs. I urge the government to formulate a policy to revive and protect houseboats as part of Kashmir’s rich heritage,” Chairman NTTA, Manzoor Ahmad Wangoo said.

“Kashmir, the paradise on earth, has always been marketed to the outside world as an exotic tourist destination with unparalleled beauty. Its foremost attraction is the Dal, and the houseboat an enduring motif in its glory. The floating palace, as it is often referred to, is the ultimate fantasy of the tourists which alone is potent enough to drive them to this idyllic place,” he said.

Elaborating, he said the modern appearance of the houseboats was introduced in the late 19th century. “As a matter of fact when tourism

in Kashmir was in its infancy, houseboats were the only accommodation available to tourists and even to this day remains the flag bearer of Kashmir’s tourism. It is the responsibility of the Government and stakeholders to join hands for saving this heritage,” Wangnoo added.