Jahangeer Ganaie
Srinagar, Apr 23 : The terror attack that occurred in the Pahalgam area of Anantnag district on Tuesday has left the region in a state of fear and uncertainty.
Residents of Pahalgam, speaking to the news agency—Kashmir News Observer (KNO), expressed shock, saying their once peaceful paradise has turned into a scene of devastation within moments.
Many locals said they had been thriving economically thanks to a steady flow of tourists in recent years. However, this tragic incident has not only claimed innocent lives but has also jeopardised the livelihoods of countless people dependent on tourism in Pahalgam and surrounding areas.
Zakir Ahmad, a local hotelier, told KNO that all hotel bookings have been cancelled, leaving nearly all accommodations vacant. “With no guests, the impact will be felt by hoteliers, restaurant owners, pony walas, cab drivers, local shopkeepers and many others,” he said.
Despite the sombre atmosphere, the Kashmiri people provided free food, accommodation and transportation to tourists to ensure their safety and comfort.
“Kashmiris have condemned this incident and have stepped up to help tourists reach their destinations, offering cabs and support,” Mehraj Ahmad, a local cab driver, said, adding that dozens of drivers have mobilised to assist tourists, sharing their contact numbers to facilitate safe transport.
“We, the people of Kashmir, are peaceful and want to send a clear message that we oppose such violence; no one here supports these incidents,” he added.
To express solidarity, locals in Pahalgam organised a candlelight march on Tuesday evening to condemn the attack and to call for justice against those responsible. The locals said they are with the government to ensure peace in the region and to safeguard the flow of tourism that is vital for the local economy—(KNO)
