Srinagar, June 22: In an expression of joy and contentment over the increasing influx of tourists in Pahalgam post terrorist attack in April, the Chief Minister Omar Abdullah on Sunday posted images of a thriving Pahalgam, looking back at the hill station’s return to life following weeks of uncertainty in the wake of devastating terrorist attack.
“The last time I visited Pahalgam I biked through an all but empty market,” Abdullah posted on his official X account. “Today I returned to a Pahalgam filled with activity. Foreign tourists from all over the country jostled for space with local picnickers who were making the most of the cold weather and rain.”
Adding, “It’s highly rewarding to observe the hard work that my team and I have been investing little by little in starting to yield results.
The Chief Minister’s words came almost two months after April 22, when terrorists killed 26 tourists at Baisaran Pahalgam resulting in widespread panic. The attack resulted in a rush of cancellations, with tourism here coming to a near standstill.
Markets fell quiet, hotel reservations evaporated, and pony owners remained idle, their peak season shortened before it had a chance to start. But in the past few weeks, with increased security and continued outreach by local officials, tourists have begun trickling back.
On Sunday, the market in Pahalgam was bustling, hotels had good bookings, and the Lidder river bank was spotted with families reveling in the monsoon raindrops.
Locals claim that the influx of tourists has brought back morale more than the revenue.
“I still recall that April evening. We had no idea if the tourist season was over for the entire year,” recalled Bilal Ahmad, a hotelier. “To see tourists here again walking around, shopping, taking selfies gives us peace in our hearts,” he said.
Even tourists recognized the recent tension but reported that they felt welcome and secure.
“We were a bit apprehensive in the beginning, particularly after the news of the April incident,” said Deepika Rathi, a tourist from Pune, adding, “But the welcome here has been fantastic. We’re glad that we visited.”
With the Amarnath Yatra only a few days away, officials and stakeholders are hoping the good trend continues in restoring not only the economy of the region but its normalcy too.
As images of beaming tourists and bustling bazaars flashed through Omar Abdullah’s social media post, the message was unequivocal that Pahalgam is healing and it is open again.
