In the wake of the deadly terror attack in Jammu and Kashmir’s Pahalgam on Tuesday, which claimed the lives of 26 civilians—mostly tourists—the Ministry of Tourism issued an urgent appeal to all tourism-related service providers, urging them to assist affected tourists stranded across the Union Territory and facilitate their safe return.
In a letter dated Wednesday, V Vidyavathi, Secretary, Ministry of Tourism, emphasized the importance of compassion and support during this crisis.
“This is in the aftermath of the recent incident in Pahalgam, Jammu and Kashmir. It is requested that all the tourist service providers, travel agents, tour operators, Online Travel Aggregators (OTAs), tourist transport providers, hoteliers and all other accommodation units may provide all possible assistance to the tourists, including waiving off cancellation fees. Your support is greatly appreciated,” the letter read.
Responding swiftly to the tragedy, Jammu railway authorities, in collaboration with the Railway Protection Force (RPF), Government Railway Police (GRP), and ticket checking staff, have been instrumental in ensuring the safe return of stranded tourists.
Approximately 22 tourists were accommodated in Train 22432 from Jammu on Wednesday. Additionally, 10 tourists were assisted onto Train 12920, the Malwa Express, and around 40 others boarded Train 22942 from Jammu. Another 35 stranded tourists were helped onto Train 20434 due to coordinated efforts by the railway staff and security forces.
Meanwhile, the Jammu and Kashmir Government announced financial relief for the victims’ families.
“No amount of money can ever compensate for the loss of loved ones, but as a mark of support and solidarity, the J&K Government announces an ex-gratia of Rs 10 lakh each for the families of the deceased, Rs two lakh for those seriously injured, and Rs 1 lakh for those with minor injuries,” the J&K Chief Minister’s Office posted on X.
The CMO also confirmed that all arrangements had been made for the dignified transport of the victims back to their home states, and that those injured were receiving the best medical care available.
Following the attack, many tourists have opted to cut their visits short, leading to a spike in demand for outbound flights from Srinagar. In response, the Director General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) has issued an advisory to airlines to increase flight frequencies and offer flexibility to affected travelers.
“The airlines are also requested to consider waiving cancellation and rescheduling fees and provide all necessary assistance to tourists facing unexpected circumstances and challenges during this difficult time,” the DGCA advisory stated.
This tragedy marks one of the most devastating terror attacks in the Valley since the abrogation of Article 370 in 2019, prompting heightened security measures and widespread support efforts for the affected.