Examiner Bureau | Srinagar:
The Srinagar district administration on Sunday ordered the suspension of Shikara operations on Dal and Nigeen lakes after the India Meteorological Department (IMD) forecast heavy to very heavy rainfall across Jammu and Kashmir over the next few days.
In an advisory issued by the Office of the District Magistrate, the administration said adverse weather conditions are expected to prevail from July 19 to July 23, prompting a series of precautionary measures to safeguard lives and property.
Residents, particularly those living in vulnerable areas such as Fakir Gujri, Khonmoh and other landslide-prone locations, have been advised to stay away from hill slopes, unstable terrain and water bodies until weather conditions improve.
The administration has directed that all Shikara services on Dal and Nigeen lakes remain suspended during the warning period. Tourists and Shikara operators have been asked to strictly comply with the order in view of the anticipated inclement weather.
The advisory also cautioned sand miners operating along the Jhelum River and other water bodies against undertaking mining or river-crossing activities without first assessing water levels and prevailing conditions.
People have been urged to remain vigilant, avoid unnecessary travel in vulnerable areas, and follow weather advisories and official updates issued by the authorities.
In case of emergencies, assistance will be available through the District Emergency Operation Centre (DEOC) Srinagar and the Police Control Room (PCR), the administration said.
The district administration appealed to the public to cooperate with officials and strictly adhere to safety advisories until the weather situation returns to normal.
