In a sweeping response to the deadly terror attack in Baisaran Valley near Pahalgam that left 26 civilians dead, the Jammu and Kashmir government has temporarily shut down 48 out of 87 tourist destinations across the Kashmir Valley. The move is part of an intensified security operation aimed at ensuring public safety and rooting out any remaining terrorist elements in the region. Officials said the affected sites were either close to active search operations or assessed as vulnerable to potential threats.

The April 22 massacre, which claimed the lives of 25 Indian tourists and one Nepali national, has triggered a wave of panic among both locals and potential visitors. The shutdown has dealt a significant blow to the region’s economy, heavily reliant on tourism, with local businesses such as hotels, guides, and transport operators reporting widespread cancellations.

A senior Home Department official said, “This is a precautionary measure based on intelligence inputs. Reviews will be held regularly, and sites will reopen once we are confident about safety.” The state has urged tourists to follow government advisories, avoid affected areas, and stay connected to local authorities for updates.

The attack, initially claimed by The Resistance Front (TRF) and later retracted, has worsened already fragile diplomatic ties between India and Pakistan. Investigators have linked the attackers to Pakistan-based handlers, prompting increased vigilance across the Valley. As Kashmir mourns the loss of innocent lives, the government has vowed to take all steps necessary to prevent further bloodshed while also working on measures to support affected tourism stakeholders and gradually bring back normalcy to the Valley.