Anantnag: In a tragic incident that has sent shockwaves across the Valley, suspected militants launched a terror attack on a tourist vehicle in the picturesque town of Pahalgam in South Kashmir’s Anantnag district on Monday evening, leaving at least 20 persons injured and raising fears of multiple fatalities.
According to rreports, the attack took place near the Langanbal area of Pahalgam, a popular tourist destination. Initial reports suggest that the militants opened indiscriminate fire on the vehicle carrying non-local tourists, causing chaos and panic in the area.
The injured, which include women and children, have been rushed to nearby hospitals. Some are said to be in a critical condition. A rescue operation was launched immediately by security forces and emergency teams.
“There has been a terror attack targeting a tourist vehicle in Pahalgam. Around 20 people have sustained injuries and are undergoing treatment. The area has been cordoned off and a search operation is underway,” a senior police official confirmed.
Eyewitnesses described scenes of horror as gunshots rang out in the usually peaceful tourist hub. “People were screaming and running for cover. The whole area was in panic,” said a local shopkeeper.
This is one of the deadliest attacks on tourists in recent years in the region, raising concerns over the safety of visitors in the Valley, especially as the tourist season is picking up.
Political leaders and civil society members have condemned the attack, calling it a heinous act aimed at disturbing peace and communal harmony in the region.
Emergency Measures
In response to the incident, Anantnag Police have set up an emergency help desk to aid tourists and their families.
Emergency Contact Details:
– Phone: 9596777669
– Landline: 01932-225870
– WhatsApp: 9419051940
Ministerial Reactions
Union Tourism Minister Gajendra Singh Shekhawat called the attack a “cowardly and brutal act”, expressing deep anguish over the loss of innocent lives. “Perpetrators of this barbaric assault on peace-loving tourists will face the harshest consequences,” he stated on X.
Security forces have cordoned off the area and launched a massive search operation to track down those responsible. Further updates are awaited as authorities continue rescue and investigation operations.
