Uber launched a water transport hailing service on scenic Dal Lake in India's Kashmir region on Monday, offering rides on boats popular with tourists.

Uber has launched its first water transport service in Asia, allowing tourists to book traditional Kashmiri shikaras on Dal Lake through its app. With an initial fleet of seven shikaras, the service aims to enhance tourism in Kashmir and ensure that the entire fare benefits local shikara drivers.

Uber India has introduced 'Uber Shikara', a feature that allows tourists to pre-book their Shikara rides in Dal Lake directly through Uber app.

Uber launches water transport service in Srinagar to enhance tourism, support Shikara operators, and promote local economy.

Uber has launched shikara rides on Dal Lake in Srinagar through its app. The service includes seven shikaras available daily for up to four passengers and can be booked in advance. No commission will be taken from local operators.

Uber Shikara rides can be booked 12 hours prior and up to 15 days in advance. Shikara Owners Association President Wali Mohammad Bhatt said that there are around 4,000 shikaras in Dal Lake and he expects Uber to onboard more shikara partners.

Each ride, accommodating up to four passengers, can be booked for a one-hour duration between 10 am and 5 pm from Shikara Ghat No. 16. Reservations are available up to 12 hours in advance and can be made as far as 15 days ahead.

Uber Shikara is the ride-hailing app's first water transport service in India and introduces features such as pre-booking and trip insurance for shikara rides.

Named as Uber Shikara, the limited-period service is designed to enhance the tourism experience while promoting grassroots economic opportunities for shikara drivers in Jammu and Kashmir.

According to Reuters, Uber now offers boat-hailing services on Dal Lake, located in the Kashmir region in India. These wooden Shikara boats are decorated with bright colors and have seemingly comfortable pillows to let tourists enjoy a scenic boat ride.