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Srinagar, April 24, 2025 — The serene valleys of Kashmir, once bustling with tourists, now echo with uncertainty following the recent terror attack in Pahalgam. The chilling incident, which left several dead and injured, has cast a long shadow over the region’s fragile peace and significantly impacted its lifeblood—tourism.
Flights bound for Srinagar Airport, the main gateway to Kashmir, are now operating at nearly half their usual capacity. Industry insiders say cancellations have surged dramatically, with many travel operators reporting a drop of nearly 50–60% in bookings over the last week.
“People are scared. We had full bookings till the end of May, but since the attack, almost half of our clients have either postponed or canceled their trips,” said Aadil Mir, a travel agent based in Srinagar. “This is peak season. The losses are unimaginable.”
Pahalgam, a picturesque town known for its lush meadows and as a base for the Amarnath Yatra, was the site of the recent attack that sent shockwaves across the nation. Though security forces acted swiftly to contain the situation, the psychological impact has been profound.
Local businesses—from hotels and houseboats to tour guides and cab drivers—are bearing the brunt. Tourism, which contributes nearly 7% to Jammu & Kashmir’s GDP, is highly sensitive to such disturbances.
“It’s not just about safety, it’s about perception,” said Professor Arvind Kaul, a regional affairs expert. “Incidents like this damage the image of Kashmir as a safe travel destination, and recovery takes time.”
Meanwhile, the authorities have stepped up security measures across tourist hubs and assured travelers of enhanced protection. Joint patrols, quick response teams, and surveillance in vulnerable zones have been intensified.Flights
Despite the current dip, some remain hopeful. “Kashmir has seen worse. We always bounce back. The world must see the beauty beyond the fear,” said Shabir Ahmad, a hotel owner near Dal Lake.
As Kashmir enters what should have been a thriving summer season, the region once again finds itself at a crossroads—between fear and resilience, silence and survival.
Also Read : All Eyes on Pahalgam: Kashmiris Unite to Vow Protection for Every Tourist 2025
