J&K Government Shuts 48 Kashmir Tourist Spots After Deadly Pahalgam Terror Attack

Swift Response to Tragedy
On April 22, 2025, a horrific terror attack in Jammu and Kashmir’s Pahalgam claimed 26 lives, including 24 tourists, at the scenic Baisaran Valley. The assault, one of the deadliest in the region since the 2008 Mumbai attacks, prompted the Jammu and Kashmir government to temporarily shut 48 of the valley’s 87 tourist destinations. This unprecedented measure, announced on April 29, aims to enhance security amid ongoing search operations for the attackers, linked to the Pakistan-based Lashkar-e-Taiba group.

Impact on Kashmir’s Tourism
Kashmir, often called the “Crown Jewel of India,” welcomed 3.5 million tourists in 2024, bolstering the local economy. The closures, including popular spots like meadows and resorts, have disrupted this vibrant industry. Srinagar’s Dal Lake lies deserted, and shikaras remain docked as tourists flee the valley. Flight fares from Srinagar have plummeted, with a 63% drop from Mumbai, reflecting mass cancellations. Local voices, like Padma Shri awardee Ghulam Rasool Khan, lament the attack’s toll on livelihoods dependent on tourism
Security Measures Intensified
The government’s decision aligns with heightened security protocols. Joint operations by the Indian Army, CRPF, and J&K Police have expanded to a 5-kilometer radius around Pahalgam, employing special forces and sniffer dogs. Over 175 suspects have been detained, and mobile checkpoints now dot highways. The closures allow authorities to focus on dismantling terror networks, with raids targeting overground workers and past militants.
 

A Region in Mourning
The attack has sparked widespread grief and protests, with Kashmiris condemning the violence as an assault on their identity. Former Chief Minister Mehbooba Mufti called it a “shameful” act. The government has provided Rs 10 lakh ex gratia for the victims’ families, and global leaders, including U.S. President Donald Trump, have condemned the attack. As Kashmir grapples with this tragedy, the closures signal a resolve to prioritize safety, even at a steep economic cost