Asia’s first water transport service 'Uber Shikara' launched in Srinagar’s Dal Lake

Asia's first water transport service — Uber Shikara — is now available in Kashmir’s picturesque Dal Lake.

Ride-hailing app Uber rolled out the first such service with shikara bookings on its app on Dec 2 much to the satisfaction of shikarawalas — people who operate a shikara, a type of wooden boat that is a cultural symbol of Kashmir.

Tourists visiting the famous lake will now enjoy a hassle-free travel experience with the launch of the service.

Meanwhile, the local shikarawalas in Srinagar expressed hope that this will attract more tourists to the lake and enhance their business.

“It is a good move, which will help locals associated with Shikara business to enhance their living. The app will be highly useful for tourists including foreigners to book the shikaras for ride,” Wali Mohammed Bhat, President of Shikarawala Association Kashmir told Education Post.

“Uber is a popular ride-hailing app which has a large following on social media. It will promote Kashmiri Shikaras across the globe. The tourists will enjoy standardized pricing without any bargaining. The shikara operators are happy with this development, as it will definitely enhance their livelihood,” said Bhat.

The company has initially onboarded seven shikaris and plans to gradually expand the fleet based on the service's traction.

According to him, the Uber initiative will benefit both tourists and shikara operators.

This innovative initiative aims to combine technology with tradition allowing travellers to pre-book shikara rides through the popular ride-hailing app.

The service was launched by Uber India and South Asia President Prabhjeet Singh, who booked the inaugural shikara ride via the app.

"Uber Shikara is our humble attempt to blend technology and tradition, enhancing accessibility and uplifting tourism in the breathtaking landscape of Kashmir," Singh said.

Uber Shikara marks a significant milestone for the company as it is the first water transport offering in Asia after similar services in select European countries like Italy and Venice.

The seven shikaris are stationed at Nehru Park, an island park located in the heart of Dal lake.

Notably, Uber will not charge any fees from its shikara partners ensuring that the full fare goes directly to the boat operators.

Uber's Director of Communications Ruchika Tomar said, "Anyone who comes to Srinagar must experience a shikara ride, which is a timeless activity on every traveller's bucket list. Our service brings together the magic of technology and Kashmir's traditional charm, providing a seamless experience for travellers."

Each Uber Shikara ride can accommodate up to four passengers and is available for one-hour bookings daily between 10 a.m. and 5 p.m. Rides can be scheduled from 12 hours up to 15 days in advance.

Pertinently, Uber has previously established its presence in Srinagar with cab services, and now with the introduction of Uber Shikara, it aims to revolutionize the way tourists experience the boat ride inside the Dal Lake.

An Uber spokesperson in a statement said that Uber's water transport service in India is also the first in Asia.

Each Uber Shikara ride can be booked for 1 hour between 10 am to 5 pm, allowing up to 4 passengers from Shikara Ghat No 16, according to Uber.

Uber Shikara rides can be booked 12 hours prior and up to 15 days in advance.