Srinagar, April 23, 2025:
A horrific terror attack took place in Pahalgam, one of the most popular tourist destinations in Kashmir, in South Kashmir on Monday, April 22, killing at least 26 people, most of them tourists. Several others were seriously injured. The incident has sent shockwaves and grief across the country and has caused considerable travel disruption, especially in the Kashmir region.
How the attack happened
According to initial reports, the attack took place around 3:45 pm, when a tourist bus was returning from Chandanwari area of Pahalgam. The ambushing terrorists opened indiscriminate fire and hurled grenades on the bus, causing heavy casualties. Eyewitnesses said the bus was attacked in a pre-planned and brutal manner, creating an atmosphere of panic. Around 35-40 tourists were on board the bus at the time of the attack.
Victims and casualties
Officials have confirmed that the dead include tourists from Gujarat, Maharashtra, Uttar Pradesh and Delhi. The victims include five women and three children. The injured, many of whom are in critical condition, have been admitted to hospitals in Srinagar. Local authorities are working to contact the families of the victims and ensure proper medical care for the survivors. Pahalgam
Investigation and responsibility
So far, no terrorist group has officially claimed responsibility for the attack. However, sources in the intelligence community suspect the involvement of Hizbul Mujahideen or Lashkar-e-Taiba, two groups historically active in the region. The Jammu and Kashmir Police, in collaboration with the National Investigation Agency (NIA), have launched a full investigation. CCTV footage, shell casings and grenade fragments are being analysed to identify the culprits.Pahalgam
High alert in the Valley
Following the attack, a high alert has been declared in the Kashmir Valley. All major tourist spots, airports, railway stations and hotels are under tight security. Joint patrolling by the CRPF, police and army is underway, and a massive search operation has been launched in and around Pahalgam.
Travel impact and drop in tourism
The incident has cast a dark shadow on Kashmir’s tourism sector, especially at the peak of the spring travel season. Travel portals and domestic airlines have reported a rise in flight cancellations and reschedules.
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According to data shared with Moneyflowinsight over 15,000 flight tickets to Srinagar have either been cancelled or rescheduled in the last 24 hours.
- The airline-wise details are as follows:
- IndiGo Airlines has received around 7,500 rescheduling/cancellation requests.
- Air India group airlines received around 5,000 requests.
- SpiceJet reported around 2,500 such requests.
Airlines respond to crisis
A senior official of India’s largest airline IndiGo told Moneyflowinsight
“Most of the requests are to reschedule for a later date, reflecting the resilience of domestic travellers. Our top priority is to assist those affected by the disruption in Kashmir. We are committed to supporting our customers during this time.”
The same sentiment was echoed by other airline executives, who expressed concern over the immediate drop in travel to Kashmir but hoped that tourism flow would resume in the coming weeks.
Government response
India’s Union Home Minister strongly condemned the attack, saying:
This cowardly act will not go unpunished. Our security agencies have been directed to act swiftly and decisively. Those responsible for this barbaric attack will be brought to justice.”
Meanwhile, Jammu and Kashmir Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha announced an ex-gratia of Rs 10 lakh for the families of the deceased and free medical treatment for the injured. Pahalgam
Economic losses for local businesses
Local businesses, especially those related to tourism – hotels, guides, transport operators and vendors – are already seeing the financial impact of the attack.
A hotel owner in Srinagar said:
“Our bookings for May and June were almost full. After the attack, more than 70% of those bookings have been cancelled. This is devastating for small businesses dependent on tourism.
Public outrage and social media reactions
People across India have expressed grief, anger and solidarity with the victims on social media platforms. Hashtags such as #PahalgamAttack, #KashmirTerror and #PrayForKashmir are trending on Twitter, Instagram and Facebook. Many are demanding strict action against terrorism and better security for tourists visiting Pahalgam Kashmir.
Security measures stepping up
In response to the attack, authorities have vowed to increase surveillance and strengthen intelligence networks. Tour operators are also being advised After the attack, the government vowed to strengthen surveillance and intelligence networks. Tourist guides were also advised to exercise caution and contact the local authorities before planning any future trips to Pahalgam. Kashmir.
Conclusion:
This terrorist attack is not only a painful incident from a human point of view, but it will also have a huge impact on the tourism industry of Kashmir. The biggest challenge before the security agencies now is to catch the terrorists as soon as possible and restore the confidence of tourists.
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