Srinagar, Nov 04 (KNS): Senior leader Saifuddin Soz on Thursday said that the Kashmir houseboat industry is in extreme bad condition as the owners have been reduced to condition of penury, while urging the Lt. Governor, Manoj Sinha to sanction economic and financial package package for the industry.

In a statement, issued to Kashmir News Service (KNS), he said he feels extremely sad that Kashmir’s Traditional Houseboat Industry is facing extremely bad conditions.

“The houseboat owners have got reduced to very bad economic conditions due to falling numbers of Domestic and Foreign Tourists. The Pandemic has further deepened their misery,” he said.

He said that he approached the J&K Lt. Governor, Manoj Sinha through a letter today, requesting him to take notice of this ‘now-dilapidated’ industry.

“I have urged the Lt. Governor to sanction a package for this industry with a view to provide aid for reconstruction of the houseboats and financial help to houseboat owners,” he said.

He said the industry has suffered heavily due to Covid-19 pandemic and reduction in the number of Domestic and Foreign visitors.

“Among other things, I have requested the LG to ask his office to invite the Houseboat Owners Association through its president G.R. Siah, so that these sufferers will explain their plight and seek help,” Soz said.

He also expressed hope that the LG Sinha would initiate action, in this connection, at the earliest. (KNS)