The scenic hill station of Sonamarg in central Kashmir’s Ganderbal district, once a thriving hub for tourists from across India and abroad, has experienced a sharp decline in visitor numbers following the horrific terrorist attack in Pahalgam on April 22. In this brutal assault, five terrorists mercilessly massacred 26 innocent civilians-mostly Hindu tourists-targeting them solely based on their religion. This act of barbarity has not only shaken the conscience of the nation but has also dealt a severe blow to the Valley’s crucial tourism sector.
Terrorists’ Calculated Attempt to Divide and Destabilize
The terrorists’ deliberate targeting of tourists from mainland India was designed to create communal fissures and deepen mistrust between Kashmir and the rest of the country. Their nefarious objective is to perpetuate instability in the Valley, ensuring it remains economically backward and politically fragile. By instilling fear and hatred, these terrorists aim to disrupt the social fabric and communal harmony that Kashmir has long cherished.
This strategy serves a dual purpose: to derail the region’s development and to lure disillusioned youth into the vicious cycle of terrorism, reminiscent of the dark days of the past. Pakistan-backed terrorist groups continue to exploit these divisions, seeking to keep Kashmir underdeveloped and unstable, thereby maintaining their influence and control over the region’s future.
Impact on Tourism and Local Economy
Sonamarg, known for its breathtaking landscapes, snow-capped peaks, and vibrant culture, had been witnessing a strong revival in tourism. In the first quarter of 2025 alone, over 1.3 lakh tourists visited Sonamarg, including more than 3,000 foreign nationals. The year 2024 saw nearly 8 lakh visitors, signaling a robust recovery after years of turmoil.
However, the Pahalgam attack has abruptly disrupted this upward trajectory. Streets that were once bustling with tourists and vibrant marketplaces now lie quiet. Hotels and guesthouses report near-total cancellations, and local businesses dependent on tourism have suffered significant losses. The economic ripple effect threatens the livelihoods of thousands of families who rely on tourism for their sustenance.
Government’s Swift Response and Enhanced Security
In the wake of the attack, the government moved swiftly to bolster security across the Kashmir Valley. Major tourist destinations including Sonamarg have seen a substantial increase in security deployments, with multiple layers of checkpoints, area domination patrols, and rapid response teams actively engaged to reassure visitors and prevent any further incidents.
Authorities have also intensified intelligence operations to dismantle terrorist networks and their support systems. These efforts aim to restore confidence among tourists and locals alike, emphasizing that Kashmir remains a safe and welcoming destination.
Voices of Resilience and Hope
Despite the prevailing atmosphere of fear, some tourists continue to visit Sonamarg, drawn by its natural beauty and the warmth of Kashmiri hospitality. A family from Ahmedabad, currently touring the region, described the Pahalgam attack as “an unfortunate and tragic event” but urged others not to let terror dictate their choices. “The hospitality of the Kashmiri people is unbelievable. They welcomed us with smiles and open hearts. We urge the people of India: don’t be afraid-come to Kashmir and enjoy its beauty,” they said.
Local residents and business owners, though deeply affected by the downturn, remain hopeful that peace will soon return and tourism will rebound. They emphasize the importance of unity and resilience in the face of terror, rejecting the divisive agenda of terrorists.
The Road Ahead: Combating Terrorism and Promoting Peace
The Pahalgam attack is a grim reminder of the persistent threat terrorism poses to Jammu and Kashmir. It underscores the urgent need for a comprehensive approach that combines robust security measures with efforts to counter radicalization and promote communal harmony.
To truly defeat terrorism, the Valley must reject the divisive ideologies propagated by Pakistan-backed terrorist groups and their local proxies. Instead, Kashmir’s rich heritage of pluralism, tolerance and hospitality must be celebrated and strengthened. Reviving cultural and spiritual traditions that emphasize peace and coexistence can serve as powerful antidotes to the poison of religious extremism.
Terrorist’s Attempt to Destabilize Kashmir
The terrorists’ attempt to destabilize Kashmir through violence and fear has met with strong resistance from the people and security forces alike. While the Pahalgam attack has temporarily impacted tourism and shaken confidence, the spirit of Kashmir endures. Sonamarg’s breathtaking landscapes and the genuine warmth of its people continue to offer hope and healing.
As security forces intensify their operations and the government implements stronger safeguards, the message is clear: Kashmir remains open to visitors who seek its beauty and peace. The Valley’s future lies not in fear and division but in resilience, unity, and the shared aspiration for lasting harmony and prosperity.
