In the aftermath of a horrific militant attack near Pahalgam, Indian-administered Kashmir, which left 26 individuals dead, the once-thriving tourist destination now feels eerily quiet. A week later, a few brave tourists are beginning to venture back, cautiously exploring the town’s picturesque landscapes, but the shadow of recent violence is still palpable.
The attack occurred last Tuesday when militants opened fire on tourists visiting Baisaran, a scenic meadow just three miles from Pahalgam. This incident has intensified existing tensions in the region, stoking anger and fear at both local and national levels. With India and Pakistan both claiming Kashmir, anxieties over potential military escalations have compounded worries regarding tourists' safety.
Many businesses that relied on tourism are now on the brink of financial despair, as the incident has led to a massive wave of cancellations. Abhishek Sansare, a tour operator from Mumbai, reported alarming cancellation rates of up to 90%. While some travelers are still choosing to go ahead with their trips, uncertainty clouds their return. Residents and business owners, such as shawl-seller Rafi Ahmed, express deep concerns over falling sales and long-term viability without robust tourist inflow.
Amid the turmoil, local figures, including actors, are actively encouraging visitors to return, arguing that doing so would be a symbolic response to the militants' intentions to instill fear. As Bollywood actor Atul Kulkarni noted, "If the message from militants is 'don’t come here', we should respond by coming in even larger numbers."
Indian authorities have responded to the attack with increased security measures, including detaining suspects and conducting searches. The government has imposed restrictions on several tourist sites, and speculation abounds regarding the timing of a military response.
While Kashmir previously enjoyed a resurgence in tourism, evidenced by totals reaching 23 million visitors last year, this recent violence has reignited fears about instability in the region. Future investments and tourism depend heavily on the restoration of safety and confidence among potential visitors.
Omar Abdullah, Jammu and Kashmir's chief minister, lamented the loss during a recent assembly session, acknowledging the deep sorrow of affected families. His heartfelt remarks highlighted the challenge of restoring Kashmir's reputation as a peaceful destination, with many fearing that the scars from this attack will remain for years to come.
