Pahalgam Attack Fallout: 48 Tourist Spots Closed, Passenger Traffic Declines Sharply at Srinagar Airport

SRINAGAR, Apr 28: In the aftermath of the deadly terrorist attack in Pahalgam, Anantnag—which claimed 26 lives, mostly tourists—the Jammu and Kashmir Government has shut down 48 of the Valley’s 87 tourist destinations, while Srinagar Airport has witnessed a steep drop in passenger traffic and mass cancellations of travel bookings.

The attack, which triggered widespread condemnation, has deeply impacted the ongoing tourist season. Travel operators across Kashmir reported a wave of cancellations following the incident, which occurred on April 23. “April to June is our prime season. This attack has shaken tourist confidence. Most bookings have been cancelled,” said a travel operator in Srinagar.

According to airport authorities, passenger traffic began declining immediately after the incident.

• On April 23, the airport recorded 17,653 passengers across 112 flights (6,561 arrivals and 11,092 departures).

• On April 24, the figure dropped to 15,836 passengers on 118 flights (4,456 arrivals and 11,380 departures).

• On April 25, only 14,041 passengers travelled through 100 scheduled flights, along with a few extra flights carrying minimal traffic (24 arrivals and 794 departures).

• By April 26, the number stood at 14,783 passengers on 106 flights, with three additional flights carrying just 28 arriving and 351 departing passengers.

Airport officials confirmed that while the number of flights has not reduced significantly, the load factor—passenger occupancy per flight—has fallen considerably. “The fear triggered by the attack has led to a dip in tourist arrivals,” said an official, adding that flights are operating normally and security is being monitored closely.

In response to the heightened security situation, the government has closed several popular destinations including Yousmarg, Doodpathri, Aharbal, Verinag Garden, Sinthan Top, Babareshi, Jamia Masjid, Badamwari, Wular/Watlab, Kousarnag, and numerous resorts and cafes. Officials noted that some of these closures are temporary, and security has been ramped up at other key tourist spots to reassure visitors.

Meanwhile, Srinagar Police has intensified its crackdown on terrorist elements, conducting raids at 34 residences in the city as part of ongoing investigations under the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (UAPA). With these, the total number of house searches across Kashmir has surpassed 1,000. Police stated that the searches were carried out legally in the presence of Executive Magistrates and witnesses, aimed at dismantling terror-support infrastructure and seizing arms, digital devices, and documents.

“Srinagar Police remains committed to maintaining peace and security in the city. Anyone involved in unlawful or anti-national activities will face strict legal consequences,” the police said in a statement.