In the aftermath of the deadly militant attack in Pahalgam, South Kashmir, that claimed the lives of 26 tourists, including two foreigners, over 50 Goan travelers have been stranded in Srinagar, according to local tour operators.
The attack, which occurred on April 22 at Baisaran meadows, also known as ‘Mini Switzerland’, involved at least 10 armed terrorists who opened indiscriminate fire on tourists. Several others were injured in what is being described as one of the worst assaults on civilians in the region in recent years.
All tourists, including the Goan group, were swiftly evacuated from Pahalgam and nearby areas and shifted to hotels in Srinagar as a safety precaution. Authorities remain on high alert across Jammu and Kashmir.
Ahraz Mulla, co-founder of Goa Adventure Club, a Panjim-based travel agency, confirmed to The Goan that all Goan tourists are safe. “One group was in the Pahalgam market when the firing began, and another was in Sonamarg. Both groups have now been safely relocated to Srinagar,” Mulla said.
He further added that the agency had organized a tour for 34 people to Pahalgam and 12 to Jammu. The Pahalgam group had arrived on April 17 and was due to return on April 24. "We are currently working to arrange their immediate return to Goa," he noted.
However, complications have arisen with the group in Jammu, who are now stranded due to a landslide. “The situation is difficult. Flights are currently running at full capacity, making it challenging to get everyone back quickly,” Mulla explained.
Other travel agencies have also confirmed their clients are safe and remain in constant contact with travelers in the region. Emergency travel arrangements are being coordinated to facilitate the early return of all stranded Goan tourists.
Meanwhile, security forces continue their investigation and manhunt for the terrorists behind the Pahalgam attack, while the nation mourns the lives lost in the senseless violence.
(This story is published from a syndicated feed)