In the aftermath of the brutal terror attack at Baisaran meadows in Pahalgam that claimed 26 lives, mostly tourists, nearly 50 public parks and major tourist attractions across Jammu and Kashmir have been shut down. The move, aimed at ensuring safety amid rising security threats, has severely impacted tourism in the region, which is a critical part of the local economy.
Tourist destinations shut without formal notice
According to officials, the closure of tourist sites has not been announced through a formal government order but has been implemented directly on the ground. Security personnel have locked gates and restricted access to at least 48 out of 87 public parks and gardens across Kashmir. These include both well-established and emerging destinations such as Dooshpathri, Kokernag, Duksum, Sinthan Top, Acchabal, Bangus Valley, Margan Top, and Tosamaidan. Several Mughal Gardens in south Kashmir have also been closed, with their entrances sealed.
Unnamed sources cited by PTI reported that tourists now view many of these locations as potentially unsafe, prompting precautionary measures. Authorities insist the safety of visitors and locals remains paramount, even though the shutdown is a major symbolic and financial setback to the valley’s tourism industry.
India-Pakistan tensions escalate
Following the Pahalgam attack, tensions between India and Pakistan have sharply intensified. The Pakistan Army has continued unprovoked firing across the Line of Control (LoC) for five consecutive nights, targeting areas in Kupwara, Baramulla, and the Akhnoor sector. The Indian Army has responded with measured but firm retaliation.
The rising hostility has led to a series of countermeasures by both countries. India has suspended the Indus Waters Treaty, a key water-sharing agreement, while Pakistan has responded by shutting its airspace to Indian airlines. These diplomatic and military escalations reflect the deepening mistrust following the attack.
Amidst the heightened security scenario, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh met with Prime Minister Narendra Modi in Delhi for a detailed security review. The 40-minute meeting came just hours after the latest ceasefire violation by Pakistan. Rajnath briefed the Prime Minister on the preparedness of the Indian military and the security situation in Jammu and Kashmir.
As security forces remain on high alert and tourist activity grinds to a halt, the region braces for an uncertain period ahead.
