Kashmir Struggles to Heal: Mixed Feelings as Tourists Cautiously Return

Amid the backdrop of a devastating militant attack, Kashmir’s tourism industry faces uncertainty as visitors cautiously start to return to Pahalgam, signaling both hope and apprehension.

In the wake of a tragic militant attack that claimed 26 lives near the picturesque Pahalgam resort in Indian-administered Kashmir, the town embodies an uneasy silence. A week ago, chaos engulfed the area when militants opened fire on tourists at Baisaran, a renowned meadow just three miles away, sparking nationwide outrage and concerns regarding security within the region. In the aftermath, the once-bustling high street, laden with shuttered shops and vacant hotels, is slowly seeing the return of visitors, though in limited numbers.

The attack, one of the deadliest in recent memory, has raised tensions between India and Pakistan, both of which lay claim to Kashmir, further compounding fears of military confrontation. Local authorities's decision to close over half of the region's tourist spots as they assess the security landscape emphasizes the precarious situation.

Tourism serves as a crucial pillar for Pahalgam’s economy, and hopes are fading that the sector will bounce back quickly. Many locals, such as shawl-seller Rafi Ahmed, worry about their livelihoods as cancellations mount. Figures from the travel industry reveal a cancellation rate of 80-90% for planned trips from major cities like Mumbai and Pune.

Despite the dread that lingers, some tourists are choosing to remain. Akshay Solanki, a visitor from Mumbai, noted a sense of reassurance from locals and security personnel, although others reported feelings of panic during the attack. In an effort to support the local economy, Bollywood actor Atul Kulkarni traveled to Pahalgam shortly after the incident, encouraging tourists to stick to their plans and visit the valley.

Uncertainty hangs over Pahalgam's future, with implications for investments and upcoming projects such as the world’s highest single-arch rail bridge that are now in jeopardy. Ubair Shah, a local business owner, remarked that potential investors may hesitate due to the current security concerns.

In the Jammu and Kashmir assembly, Chief Minister Omar Abdullah expressed deep sorrow over the victims and lamented the pain experienced by their families. He emphasized the need for solidarity and resilience in the face of adversity, underscoring the striking balance between hope and fear as Pahalgam attempts to rebuild and recover.