• The Daily Hints
• 23 Apr, 2025

On April 22nd, 2025 a deadly terror attack shook Pahalgam, Kashmir, killing 26 tourists including one from Kolkata. Known as “Mini Switzerland” this scenic spot was swarmed with visitors during the peak season. But why did terrorists choose Pahalgam.? Experts reveal its remote location, dense forests and easy escape routes made it a perfect target for a horrifying strike.

Details & Context
Pahalgam, a gem in South Kashmir is a must-visit for travellers. Its breath taking beauty—from Tulian Lake to Betaab Valley and Baisaran Valley—earns it the nickname “Mini Switzerland.” Every year, especially during the tulip season, tourists flock here to soak in nature’s charm. This year was no different, with crowds filling the area. But no one expected the serene valley to turn into a nightmare. On April 22nd, 2025 terrorists attacked a resort in Pahalgam’s Baisaran meadow, killing 26 tourists including one from Kolkata. The attack, one of the deadliest on tourists in Kashmir’s history was claimed by The Resistance Front (TRF) a Pakistan-based group linked to Lashkar-e-Taiba.

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Why Pahalgam, though.? Experts point to its unique geography. The attack site, located uphill is only accessible by foot or horseback, making it hard for security forces to reach quickly. Dense forests and mountain slopes surround the area, offering perfect hideouts. Plus, escape routes to other districts are straightforward, giving terrorists an edge. The timing—peak tourist season—also ensured a high-impact strike, spreading fear and disrupting Kashmir’s booming tourism.

Quotes

·      Brigadier Debashis Das, Security Expert: “The location is remote and security forces can’t reach easily. Terrorists knew they could escape through the forests or blend into the crowd. It’s also a straight path to other districts.”

·      Brigadier Debashis Das on Motive: “Pakistan doesn’t want tourists in Kashmir. This attack serves their goal of scaring people away.”

·      Local Resident, Pahalgam: “We call it Mini Switzerland for its beauty but now it’s a place of tragedy. Tourists were here to enjoy, not to die.”

Additional Information
Kashmir’s tourism has been on the rise in recent years, with visitor numbers jumping significantly, especially during the tulip season. Pahalgam, with its picture-perfect landscapes, is a top draw. But this attack has exposed vulnerabilities. The terrorists exploited the area’s isolation, knowing security forces would struggle to respond in time. After the attack, they likely fled through the dense forests or mixed into the crowd, as Brigadier Debashis Das explained. The straight routes to neighbouring districts further aided their escape.

The attack also raises questions about security lapses. Opposition leaders are asking,

·      If intelligence agencies had prior warnings, why wasn’t action taken.?

·      Was there a gap in security measures.?

The TRF’s involvement points to external forces, with Brigadier Das noting Pakistan’s interest in deterring tourism to destabilise the region. This isn’t the first time tourists have been targeted in Kashmir but the scale of this attack—26 dead—makes it one of the worst in history.

Read More: Terrorism In Kashmir | Kashmir Terror Attack, A Narrow Escape and National Outrage

Impact Analysis
The Pahalgam attack has far-reaching consequences

·      Tourism Setback: Kashmir’s tourism, a key economic driver, faces a major blow. Fearful travellers are canceling plans, and the “Mini Switzerland” tag now carries a tragic shadow.

·      Security Concerns: The attack highlights gaps in protecting remote tourist spots. If a place like Pahalgam can be targeted, what about other destinations.?

·      Geopolitical Tensions: With TRF and Pakistan’s involvement, Indo-Pak relations could worsen. The attack aligns with Pakistan’s alleged goal of disrupting normalcy in Kashmir.

·      Local Economy: Pahalgam’s locals who depend on tourism are hit hard. Hotels, guides and small businesses may struggle for months.

·      Public Sentiment: The attack has sparked anger and fear across India, with many questioning the safety of traveling to Kashmir post-Article 370.

The terror attack in Pahalgam wasn’t random—it was a calculated strike. Terrorists chose the spot for its isolation, escape routes and high tourist footfall, aiming to maximise fear and disruption. While Kashmir’s beauty remains unmatched, this tragedy exposes the challenges of securing its remote areas. Stronger security, better intelligence and international cooperation are crucial to prevent such attacks. For now, Pahalgam mourns but its spirit—and Kashmir’s—must rise above this darkness.

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