In the wake of the tragic Pahalgam terror attack, the Jammu and Kashmir government has temporarily closed 48 out of 87 tourist destinations across the Kashmir Valley to safeguard public safety and restore confidence among visitors. This decisive step aims to minimize risk in vulnerable regions and address the heightened state of alert in the Union Territory, reported by Daily Excelsior.

Among the popular locations now restricted for public entry are:

• Yousmarg, Doodhpathri, Aharbal, Kousarnag, and Bangus Valley
• Iconic heritage and scenic sites like the Sun Temple, Verinag Garden, Sinthan Top, and Habba Khatoon Point
• Tourist-oriented accommodations such as Cherry Tree Resort, North Cliff Café, Forest Hill Cottage, and Eco Village Resort (Dara)

These destinations are temporarily closed, not permanently sealed, and the government has reassured the public that security reviews are ongoing to re-evaluate the safety of each area before reopening.

Security Strengthened at Remaining Tourist Sites

While 48 locations have been shuttered, enhanced security arrangements have been implemented at other major tourist attractions in Kashmir. According to a senior official, these closures are part of a temporary precautionary measure based on intelligence inputs, not a blanket travel ban.

Tourism plays a vital role in Kashmir’s economy, and authorities are working diligently to restore normalcy. Reinforced checkpoints, additional patrolling, and surveillance systems are now operational in all active tourist zones to provide a sense of safety for domestic and international travelers.

Sharp Decline in Passenger Traffic at Srinagar Airport

In the immediate aftermath of the Pahalgam incident, Srinagar International Airport witnessed a steep drop in passenger arrivals, even though flight operations remained largely unaffected in terms of scheduled frequencies.

Here’s a breakdown of the passenger traffic over recent days:

• April 23: 17,653 passengers on 112 flights (6,561 arrivals / 11,092 departures)
• April 24: 15,836 passengers on 118 flights (4,456 arrivals / 11,380 departures)
• April 25: 14,041 passengers on 100 flights (plus 24 arrivals and 794 departures on 4 extra flights)
• April 26: 14,783 passengers on 106 scheduled flights (with 28 arrivals and 351 departures on 3 additional flights)

Despite a consistent number of flights, load factors (seat occupancy) have noticeably declined. This trend indicates growing apprehension among tourists and travelers, impacting Kashmir’s tourism-dependent economy.

Counter-Terrorism Raids Continue Across Srinagar and Kashmir Valley

As part of its ongoing crackdown on terror networks and associates, the Jammu and Kashmir Police, under the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (UAPA), intensified its search operations across multiple locations in Srinagar.

On the latest day of action:

• 34 residential premises across the city were raided
• Total searches across the Valley have crossed the 1,000 mark
• The searches were conducted in presence of Executive Magistrates and independent witnesses, ensuring transparency

The operations focused on seizing arms, documents, and digital devices suspected to be linked with terrorist conspiracies. Police officials confirmed that these measures are intended to collect actionable evidence, identify radical elements, and dismantle the terror-supporting infrastructure operating in the shadows.

Read also: List of Flight Departures from Srinagar Airport (SXR)

Jammu and Kashmir Police Reaffirms Zero-Tolerance Policy Against Terrorism

In a statement issued post-searches, Srinagar Police reiterated its commitment to maintaining law and order, ensuring citizen safety, and eliminating the ecosystem that supports extremist ideologies.

“Any individual found furthering the agenda of violence or unlawful activities will face strict legal consequences under the law,” the statement emphasized.

Officials confirmed that legal action would be swift and uncompromising against those aiding proscribed terrorist outfits in any capacity. This firm stance reflects the administration’s renewed urgency to reinforce Kashmir as a safe destination and a region of peace and development.

Tourism Industry Braces for Impact Amid Uncertainty

The twin blow of terror-related incidents and travel disruptions has delivered a significant shock to Kashmir’s tourism sector, particularly ahead of the summer travel season, which typically draws thousands to the valley’s hill stations, gardens, lakes, and religious sites.

Hotels, travel operators, and small-scale vendors in tourist hubs like Gulmarg, Pahalgam, Sonamarg, and Srinagar now report mass cancellations and a significant drop in bookings.

Many industry stakeholders are urging the government to:

• Restore public confidence through transparent communication
• Provide economic relief to local tourism businesses
• Reopen safe zones quickly after thorough risk assessments

Authorities Balance Tourism and Security Needs

The government remains firm on its twin objectives — to ensure public safety and to prevent economic disruption in the valley. Authorities are constantly monitoring the situation and may reopen certain destinations as the threat level decreases.

Until then, locals and tourists alike are urged to follow official travel advisories, avoid restricted zones, and cooperate with security forces.

The closure of 48 tourist destinations in Kashmir, a direct response to the recent terrorist attack in Pahalgam, reflects the government’s determination to prioritize safety over sentiment. While the move has caused temporary setbacks to the tourism economy, it signals a proactive and preventive approach toward counter-terrorism efforts.

As the J&K Police intensifies its crackdown on terror elements and flight data continues to reflect public anxiety, the road ahead for Kashmir involves a careful balance between securing peace and reviving tourism. Only with firm action, cooperation, and collective resilience can the region regain its rightful place as India’s crown jewel of natural beauty and hospitality.