Uber Introduces Uber Shikara
Uber Introduces Uber Shikara: India’s First Water Transport Service in Srinagar’s Dal Lake
Uber has introduced its first water transport service, called Uber Shikara, in India’s Srinagar, Dal Lake. This programme enables tourists to book rides in advance using the mobile application. It introduces a new segment for the startup , focusing on water transport rather than just land services. The service aims to enhance travel experiences while supporting the local economy and cultural preservation.
Seamless Booking Experience
Uber Shikara offers an easier booking model for rides between 10 AM and 5 PM. Each Shikara can accommodate up to four passengers and the ride lasts approximately an hour. Passengers can reserve their rides 12 hours to 15 days before through Uber Reserve in the app. The service helps travellers avoid last-minute rush and hustle, ensuring smooth tours around Dal Lake.
Prabhjeet Singh, Uber India & South Asia’s President, shared the company’s aim to blend technology and tradition. “At Uber, we strive to make mobility magical and effortless for all our valued travellers,” he said. “Uber Shikara blends technology with tradition to provide a seamless experience for Shikara rides in Kashmir.” He added that the initiative enhances accessibility and promotes tourism in Kashmir’s breathtakingly picturesque landscapes. The service is expected to significantly boost tourism while improving accessibility in the stunning Kashmir region.
Boosting Local Economy
Uber Shikara not only offers tourists an enhanced experience but also aims to benefit the local economy. In a bid to support shikara operators, Uber has waived platform fees, ensuring that the entire fare goes directly to the boat drivers. Moreover, the service operates at government-determined rates, providing fair and transparent pricing for both tourists and operators.
Wali Mohammad Bhatt, President of the Shikara Owners Association, praised the initiative. “Uber service will boost shikara operators’ business as the app will facilitate the booking of the boats at fixed rates and end bargaining which provides relief to tourists. The booking will also provide assured income for Shikara operators. We expect more shikara to join Uber, based on the response of tourists,” he said. With an estimated 4,000 shikara operators on Dal Lake, this initiative could significantly boost their business and create new opportunities for the local community.
Service Expansion and Future Plans
Initially, Uber has launched the service with seven shikaras but plans to expand the fleet based on demand. Bhatt expressed optimism, noting that the initiative could lead to increased involvement from local operators. “We expect more shikaras to join Uber, based on the response of tourists,” he said. As the service grows, it will likely improve both the quality and availability of shikara rides, further enhancing the experience for visitors.
How to Book an Uber Shikara Ride
Booking an Uber Shikara ride is straightforward:
- Download the latest version of the Uber app.
- Select “Shikara Ghat No. 16” as both: pick up and drop off locations.
- Select your time and date.
- Choose Uber Shikara and finalise your booking.
Through this novel service, Uber seeks not only to enhance the mode of transport for tourists but also to enhance the economy in Srinagar, and the wider Kashmir area.
