In the wake of the recent terrorist attack in Pahalgam, the once-bustling Gulmarg Valley has transformed into a ghost town, with tourist activity plummeting to less than 1%. The attack, which resulted in the tragic loss of innocent lives, has cast a long shadow over the Kashmir, prompting authorities to implement strict security measures to ensure the safety of tourists.

To counter any potential threats and restore confidence among tourists, elite Quick Reaction Teams (QRT) from the Jammu and Kashmir Police’s Special Operation Group (SOG) and paramilitary forces have been deployed across popular tourist destinations. From Tangmarg to Gulmarg, these teams are stationed at key locations where tourists typically gather, including Sonmarg, Pahalgam, and the scenic Dal Lake area in Srinagar.

As part of heightened security protocols, 48 tourist destinations have been also closed for tourists. This precautionary measure aims to safeguard the well-being of all tourists visiting the Kashmir Valley following the chaos unleashed by the Pahalgam attack.

The impact on the local tourism industry has been devastating. Hotels, resorts, and homestays that were previously bustling with activity are now facing near-zero occupancy. Locals in Gulmarg told News24 that markets are deserted and roads are eerily quiet, with around 1,800 hotel rooms lying vacant since the attack. “Not a single room in most of the hotels is booked or currently occupied,” lamented a local hotelier. The situation is no different in Sonmarg, which also resembles a ghost town.

In these tough times, there is a ray of hope visible among the small number of tourists who, while defying terrorist threats, are still coming to visit and enjoy the natural beauty of the Kashmir Valley. A group of tourists from Maharashtra told News24 that they have come here after the Pahalgam terrorist attack and that they won’t let the terrorists win, as their aim was to instill fear among tourists. They mentioned that upon arriving in Kashmir, they found security forces deployed all over the tourist areas for the protection of visitors, and the warmth of the locals is so encouraging that they love this place and are staying here despite what happened in Pahalgam. The whole family, in one voice, urges people all over the country not to be deterred by terrorist actions and to come to Kashmir.