Bhopal, Dec 4: Madhya Pradesh's Chief Minister Mohan Yadav inaugurated 'shikaras' on the picturesque Upper Lake in Bhopal on Thursday, aiming to promote tourism while adhering to environmental guidelines.

Joining the ceremonial launch were State Assembly Speaker Narendra Singh Tomar, BJP chief Hemant Khandelwal, Leader of Opposition Umang Singhar, Bhopal Mayor Malti Rai, and Haryana Assembly Speaker Harvinder Kalyan, who was visiting Bhopal.

CM Yadav expressed his vision for Bhopal to become a new tourism hub, highlighting the beauty of the Upper Lake. He noted, "It is a matter of pride to have such a stunning lake in Madhya Pradesh."

He drew parallels with the lakes in Jammu and Kashmir, which are renowned for their natural beauty and recreational activities.

"Visitors to Bhopal's Upper Lake can now enjoy shikara rides, enhancing its reputation as a top tourist destination," CM Yadav remarked while enjoying a ride on one of the shikaras.

The introduction of shikaras was initially announced during the Tiranga Yatra, aiming to replicate the charm of Dal Lake in Jammu and Kashmir.

Traditionally, shikaras are wooden boats that serve various purposes, including sightseeing, transportation, fishing, and harvesting aquatic plants.

According to CM Yadav, these boats have already sparked public interest and are being promoted as a significant tourism initiative by the state's Tourism Department.

The government is committed to realizing this vision, enhancing the appeal and accessibility of water bodies for both locals and tourists.

Part of the Upper Lake is designated as a Ramsar site, highlighting its ecological significance. However, tourism has been limited by environmental regulations.

In 2023, the National Green Tribunal (NGT) banned motorized boats and cruise vessels on the lake to protect its ecological integrity.

The tribunal stressed that water bodies are public resources that require protection from commercial exploitation.

In light of these restrictions, the Madhya Pradesh Tourism Development Corporation has shifted towards a more sustainable approach. In June, they announced the introduction of shikara rides, with ten boats already in operation and plans for an additional twenty.

These boats will not only provide scenic rides but also feature floating shops, offering a unique and immersive experience for tourists. This initiative blends the charm of Kashmiri culture with Bhopal's local heritage.

Officials are hopeful for the success and expansion of this initiative, providing a tranquil alternative to the previously prohibited motorized cruises.

The initiative has received positive feedback from both residents and environmentalists, who appreciate the balance between tourism growth and ecological conservation.

The Upper Lake, also known as Bada Talab or Badi Jheel, covers over 31 square kilometers and was constructed in the 11th century.