Srinagar, Kashmir — Kashmiris living near the iconic Dal Lake are facing increasing difficulty booking hotels in their own region, highlighting a growing divide between local residents and the booming tourism industry. With Dal Lake attracting thousands of visitors yearly, especially after the recent relaxation of COVID-19 restrictions, hotel owners have increasingly prioritized tourists over locals, particularly during peak seasons. This shift has led to frustration among Kashmiris, who feel sidelined in favor of visiting tourists.
In addition to booking restrictions, residents around Dal Lake contend with environmental issues affecting their everyday lives. Pollution from untreated sewage in and around Dal Lake has reached critical levels, degrading water quality and leading to significant health concerns. Experts report that untreated waste from Srinagar city and waste from the famous houseboats flow directly into the lake. While conservation efforts are underway, progress has been slow, with many treatment plants remaining underutilized or in need of upgrades.
The local community’s struggle for access to clean water has only added to the strain. Once a lifeline for thousands of families, Dal Lake is now a source of waterborne diseases. Many residents have resorted to alternative water sources or have had to travel to neighboring areas to meet basic water needs, further complicating daily life for those who call the lake home.
The situation around Dal Lake highlights broader challenges for the region. As tourism brings in revenue, balancing environmental preservation and fair treatment of local residents remains critical to Kashmir's future.