Terror Attack in Pahalgam – 12 Tourists Injured Amid Surge in Kashmir Tourism

12 tourists were killed in a terror strike at Baisaran meadows in Pahalgam in South Kashmir on Tuesday morning, when unknown shooters fired at visiting tourists. The scenic meadow, connected by road from Anantnag town in South Kashmir and also reachable only on foot or by pony, witnesses many visitors year-round.

Panic and Emergency Response

Eyewitnesses described the sudden bursts of gunfire, plunging the tourists into panic. The authorities quickly deployed helicopters to take out the injured persons, with locals assisting in bringing some down with ponies. Medical personnel have verified that all the injured persons are now stable.

Security Measures and Investigation

Security personnel have cordoned off the area and initiated a massive search operation to find the culprits. The attack occurs at a time when Kashmir is experiencing a tourist boom, just months ahead of the annual Amarnath yatra.

Political Reaction

Officially, the attack is regarded as a purposeful effort at destabilising the area and instilling fear into tourists.

Authorities, among them Jammu and Kashmir Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha, have condemned the attack and confirmed that the attackers will be apprehended and punished. Former Chief Minister Omar Abdullah also condemned the attack and advocated for a probe into the matter.