Uber launches boat hailing service on Kashmir’s scenic Dal Lake

Guess who’s making waves in the world of travel? Uber launched a boat-hailing service on the serene Dal Lake in Kashmir, India! Now, tourists and locals can book rides on the traditional Shikara boats through the Uber app, blending modern convenience with age-old charm. Reservations can be made from 12 hours to 15 days in advance, making planning that picturesque lake journey easier than ever.

While Uber has dabbled in water transport in cities like London, this marks its maiden voyage in India’s aquatic arenas. What’s even more interesting is that Uber isn’t charging any fees for these bookings—all payments go straight to the Shikara operators. According to Prabhjeet Singh, president of Uber India and South Asia, this initiative aims to fuse technology with tradition for a seamless travel experience.

The move has stirred mixed feelings among the local boatmen. Some are thrilled, expecting a boost in business with fixed rates and no haggling. “There will be fixed rates, no cheating, and no scope for bargaining,” says Wali Mohammad Bhatt, president of the Shikara Owners Association. Others remain skeptical, believing the tech giant’s entry won’t sway their loyal customer base.

This development comes when Kashmir, often dubbed the “Switzerland of India,” is experiencing a resurgence in tourism. After years of unrest, the decline in violence has opened doors for new opportunities. Uber’s venture could signify a new chapter in how technology integrates with traditional industries in regions rich with culture and history……….[read more]

Rising Dough

How could Uber’s collaboration with traditional Shikara boat operators transform the local business landscape, and what might this mean for the future relationship between global tech companies and traditional industries?