Small but steady tourist return to Pahalgam sends strong message against fear, terror: Report
Srinagar: Even before the Jammu and Kashmir administration officially reopens sixteen tourist destinations from June 17, a modest but meaningful number of tourists have reportedly started arriving in Pahalgam.
Nearly two months after the April 22 terror attack in the Baisaran meadows of Pahalgam, which claimed the lives of 25 tourists and a local resident, the famed resort town is once again welcoming travellers drawn by its cool climate and natural beauty, as reported by Deccan Herald on Monday.
While visitor numbers remain below peak season levels, many here emphasise that their visit is about more than leisure. “This isn’t just a trip—it’s a message. Kashmir is as safe as any other tourist destination in the world. The only way to defeat terror is to refuse to be terrorised. We are here to show that Kashmir’s spirit is unbreakable,” DH quoted Atul Sharma, a tourist from Delhi, as saying.
A Srinagar-based family echoed the sentiment, viewing their visit as a way to reclaim peace. “We are enjoying the mountains, the calm, and the cool air,” said Aaliya, who came with her two children. She acknowledged that the incident was tragic but emphasised that life must go on, urging people from across India to visit and see for themselves that Kashmir is safe, welcoming, and as beautiful as ever.
The Jammu and Kashmir administration recently announced the reopening of 16 tourist spots after a thorough security review. Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha assured that remaining destinations will reopen in phases and emphasised that safety arrangements are in place, stressing that tourism must not fall victim to fear.
Pahalgam, one of Kashmir’s popular travel destinations, experienced widespread cancellations following the terror attack. Locals, whose livelihoods depend on tourism, are hopeful that the returning trickle of visitors will soon grow into a steady stream.
“Even if it’s not a big crowd yet, it’s a start—and a statement. Every tourist who comes is helping us heal and resist what those behind the violence wanted to achieve,” a local shopkeeper expressed.
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4 workers die after being buried under coal slurry in Jharkhand's Dhanbad
Dhanbad (Jharkhand) (PTI): At least four workers died after being buried under coal slurry in Jharkhand's Dhanbad district on Saturday, a police official said.
The incident took place at Moonidih coal washery in the command area of Bharat Coking Coal Limited (BCCL).
"Bodies of all four workers were dug out of debris during a rescue operation," Putki police station in-charge Waqar Hussain told PTI.
The incident took place when coal slurry was being loaded into trucks by workers, during which a large chunk of slurry fell and trapped several workers underneath, officials said.
The deceased have been identified as Manik Bauri, Dinesh Bauri, Deepak Bauri, and Hemlal Gope.
Meanwhile, the family members of the deceased and local villagers placed the bodies in front of the washery gate and began a protest.
They demanded compensation, jobs for dependents and action against those responsible for the incident.
Police and administration officials are trying to pacify the protesters, an official said.
