1. Introduction
Flight Increase serene and picturesque region of Jammu and Kashmir, especially tourist hotspots like Pahalgam, has always drawn nature lovers and adventure seekers from all corners of India and the world. However, the recent terror attack in Pahalgam has cast a shadow over this tranquillity, sending shockwaves through the tourism industry. In the immediate aftermath of the attack, thousands of tourists cut short their vacations and rushed to return home, causing an unprecedented spike in air travel demand at Srinagar airport.
In response, the government took swift measures to ease the panic and logistical challenges. A total of 110 flights were operated from Srinagar airport on April 24 to accommodate the mass exodus of tourists. Moreover, airfares were reduced significantly to prevent travel exploitation during this time of crisis. This article delves deep into the events following the Pahalgam attack, the government’s response, the tourism industry’s hit, and what lies ahead for Kashmir.
2. The Pahalgam Attack: A Brief Overview
On April 23, 2025, a group of terrorists launched a deadly attack in the tourist haven of Pahalgam. The sudden strike led to fatalities and injured several civilians, including tourists and local guides. While security forces managed to neutralize the assailants quickly, the psychological damage had already been done. Panic spread like wildfire among tourists, who no longer felt safe in what is otherwise known as ‘Heaven on Earth’.
The attack prompted immediate security clampdowns and advisories from tour operators, state tourism departments, and even foreign embassies, urging tourists to either avoid or leave the region. 
3. Surge in Tourist Departures
As news of the attack broke, there was a sudden and sharp surge in the number of tourists seeking early departures from Jammu & Kashmir. Families, especially those with children, Flight Increase were quick to cancel bookings and make urgent arrangements to fly back home.
Travel agents reported a 200% increase in requests for flight rescheduling and cancellations of hotel bookings. Tourist cabs lined the roads leading to Srinagar, and bus stands saw overcrowded scenes reminiscent of emergency evacuations.
4. Srinagar Airport Steps Up
On April 24, the day after the attack, Srinagar airport witnessed one of the busiest operational days in its history. In a joint effort between the civil aviation ministry, airline operators, Flight Increase and the airport authority, a total of 110 flights were scheduled and handled without any major disruption.
Flight Increase frequency was increased from the regular 60-70 flights to ensure tourists could exit without long waits. Airlines like Indigo, Air India, SpiceJet, and Vistara operated extra services while charter flights were also pressed into action for group evacuations organized by tour operators.
5. Government’s Swift Action and Coordination
Acknowledging the gravity of the situation, the central and UT governments moved fast to coordinate with all concerned agencies. Union Civil Aviation Minister Jyotiraditya Scindia, in a press statement, said, “Our priority is to ensure the safe return of tourists. No one should be left stranded or overcharged.”
Special instructions were given to airport staff and security to maintain decorum, Flight Increase manage crowds efficiently, and provide assistance to distressed passengers, including children and senior citizens.
6. Drastic Drop in Airfares
To prevent any undue burden on departing tourists, the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) issued advisories to airlines to cap airfare prices. Airlines responded by slashing rates across popular destinations like Delhi, Mumbai, Bengaluru, and Kolkata.
For instance, the airfare from Srinagar to Delhi, Flight Increase which had skyrocketed to ₹14,000 due to sudden demand, was brought down to ₹5,000 within hours of the advisory. This decision was widely welcomed and helped calm tempers amid a tense atmosphere.
7. Tourism Industry Takes a Hit
Kashmir’s economy is heavily dependent on tourism, and the spring-summer season is typically the most lucrative period. The Pahalgam attack came at the peak of the tourist rush, resulting in mass cancellations. Hotels, shikara operators, ponywalas, and local handicraft sellers faced a drastic drop in business.
According to preliminary data by the J&K Tourism Department, nearly 40,000 bookings were cancelled within 48 hours. Tour operators say the losses could run into hundreds of crores if the trend continues through May.
8. Reactions from Tourists
Many tourists expressed disappointment over their trip being cut short, but safety remained the overriding concern. Families traveling with children described the atmosphere as tense, Flight Increase with heavy police presence and roadblocks across various parts of Srinagar and Pahalgam.
Anita Sharma, a tourist from Jaipur, said, “It’s heartbreaking. We came here to enjoy nature and peace, but suddenly we were packing bags and running to the airport.”
9. Airlines and Travel Operators’ Role
Tour operators played a key role in coordinating group travel out of Srinagar. They worked round the clock with airlines to ensure all clients were accommodated on available flights. In some cases, Flight Increase they even bore additional costs to help tourists return safely.
Airlines offered rebooking without penalties and set up emergency counters at Srinagar airport to facilitate quicker processing. Staff from tourism departments also helped tourists at the airport with directions and updates.
10. Local Reactions and Resilience
Locals, though shaken by the attack, expressed strong resilience. Many hotel owners offered free or discounted stay extensions to stranded tourists. Some Srinagar residents provided meals and assistance to those who couldn’t get flights immediately.
“There is always a risk, but this land survives because of the warmth of its people,” Flight Increase said Bashir Ahmed, a local shopkeeper in Pahalgam who saw his earnings plummet overnight.
11. Enhanced Security and Patrols
Security agencies have now intensified patrolling and intelligence surveillance in and around tourist destinations. The Army and CRPF have been deployed in larger numbers along vulnerable routes, Flight Increase while hotels and tour guides have been asked to report any suspicious activity immediately.
Drone surveillance and mobile patrolling units have also been introduced in tourist-heavy zones like Gulmarg, Sonmarg, and Pahalgam to instill a sense of safety.
12. Statements from the Government
The J&K Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha assured the public that the situation is under control. In his address, he stated, “We condemn this cowardly act and are determined to ensure that tourism in Jammu & Kashmir continues to flourish. The perpetrators will not be spared.”
The Union Home Ministry also indicated that high-level reviews of security protocols in tourism zones are underway and additional forces would be stationed for at least the next few months.
13. Tourism Department’s Recovery Plan
The Jammu & Kashmir Tourism Department is now focusing on damage control and revival. A series of online campaigns are expected to be launched to rebuild tourist confidence. These include virtual tours, Flight Increase influencer partnerships, and discount coupons for future bookings.
Tourism officials are also planning visits to major Indian cities to hold roadshows and convince people that Kashmir remains a safe and beautiful destination, backed by reinforced security.
14. Impact on Summer Tourism
The timing of the attack could not have been worse. With the Amarnath Yatra season approaching and school holidays beginning, Flight Increase Kashmir was poised for one of its best seasons in recent years. However, analysts now predict that tourist arrivals could dip by as much as 50% if confidence is not restored quickly.
Many travelers are now choosing alternate destinations like Himachal Pradesh, Uttarakhand, and Sikkim.
15. Role of Media and Social Platforms
The attack and its aftermath received wide coverage on national and international media. While some coverage was constructive, others highlighted panic and chaos, adding to the uncertainty. Flight Increase Social media was abuzz with visuals from Srinagar airport and appeals for calm.
However, misinformation also spread, Flight Increase leading to confusion. The administration urged citizens to follow only official social media handles and verified news sources for updates.
16. Future Preparedness
This episode has led to new discussions around crisis preparedness in tourist zones. Experts suggest setting up dedicated crisis-response centers, tourist emergency helplines, and regular drills to prepare for any eventuality.
A proposal for a special tourist insurance scheme is also under consideration to compensate for trip interruptions due to security issues.
17. A Look at the Past: Similar Incidents
Kashmir’s tourism has weathered many storms in the past – from the 2016 unrest to the 2019 Article 370 abrogation. Each time, Flight Increase the valley has bounced back with increased tourist inflows. History offers hope that despite current setbacks, Kashmir’s allure will triumph again. 
18. Voices of Hope
Local youth groups and NGOs are also playing their part in rebuilding trust. They are organizing clean-up drives, cultural events, Flight Increase and social media campaigns to show a positive and peaceful image of Kashmir.
“We will not let one attack define our land,” said a volunteer from Srinagar. “We are stronger than this.”
19. Conclusion
The Pahalgam terror attack is a stark reminder of the vulnerabilities that continue to affect the region. However, the collective response — from the government, security forces, airlines, Flight Increase locals, and tourists — has shown commendable unity and efficiency. The quick scaling up of flight operations and fare regulation at Srinagar airport played a pivotal role in managing the crisis.
While the road to full recovery for Kashmir’s tourism industry will take time, the groundwork has already been laid. With continued efforts, transparency, and resilience, the Valley will once again echo with the laughter of tourists, the melodies of shikara rides, and the warmth of Kashmiri hospitality. ALSO READ:-India’s Suspension of Indus Water Treaty Sparks Crisis Diplomacy in Pakistan 2025