In the aftermath of the devastating terrorist attack at Baisaran Valley, Pahalgam, on April 22, where 26 tourists lost their lives and many others were grievously injured, stories of courage and compassion have begun to emerge from the chaos. Among the most inspiring is that of Rayees Ahmad, president of the local Pony Walas Association and a resident of Pahalgam, whose selfless actions in the face of terror have made him a symbol of hope and humanity.
Rayees Ahmad vividly recalls the harrowing moments that unfolded on that tragic day. At around 2:35 pm, he received a distress call alerting him to the attack. Without hesitation, he rushed towards the scene, even as panic-stricken tourists, locals, and fellow pony walas fled in terror. “I saw people running, their faces etched with fear and disbelief. The air was thick with confusion and dread,” Rayees recounted.
Recognizing that immediate action could save lives, Rayees quickly rallied his fellow pony walas. He urged them to put aside their own fears and help rescue the stranded and injured tourists. “We knew the terrain better than anyone. Together, we guided dozens of tourists along the shortest and safest paths back to Pahalgam,” he explained. Their knowledge of the meadows and mountain trails proved invaluable as they navigated the chaos, leading terrified visitors away from danger.
The scene that greeted Rayees upon reaching Baisaran was one of devastation and heartbreak. Lifeless bodies were scattered across the grass, and the cries of the wounded echoed through the valley. “I saw women desperately searching for their husbands. By the time we reached some of them, it was too late. The pain in their eyes is something I will never forget,” he shared, his voice heavy with emotion.
Despite the overwhelming horror, Rayees and his companions pressed on. They worked tirelessly, lifting the injured onto horses or carrying them on their backs, determined to get everyone to safety. “We didn’t stop until every injured tourist was taken to the hospital. We gathered the deceased respectfully in one place, so their families could find them,” he said. Their efforts, driven by sheer humanity, undoubtedly saved many lives that day.
Rayees also spoke of the deep scars left on the community. “This is not just the murder of innocent people; it is an assault on the soul of Kashmir and the spirit of humanity,” he lamented. Many families in Pahalgam have been left shattered, some going days without food, their lives upended by grief and trauma. The tragedy, he said, has left a wound that will take a long time to heal.
Yet, even in the face of such darkness, Rayees remains steadfast in his belief that humanity transcends all boundaries. “We are Muslims, but above all, we are human beings. Our duty is to help and protect, not to harm. The world must know that neither tourists nor locals have been cowed by these heinous acts. Kashmir’s spirit is resilient,” he affirmed.
Rayees called on the government to act swiftly to revive tourism in the region and restore confidence among travelers. “It is important to send a strong and clear message that Pahalgam and Kashmir remain welcoming and safe. We will not let terror define us,” he said.
In a time marked by fear and loss, Rayees Ahmad’s actions stand as a testament to the enduring power of compassion and the unbreakable bond of humanity. His bravery, and that of his fellow pony walas, offers hope that even in the darkest moments, the light of kindness and courage can guide the way forward.
