Pahalgam, a picturesque tourist hub in India-administered Kashmir known as the “Mini Switzerland,” has overnight transformed into a ghost town following a deadly militant attack that took place on Tuesday, April 22. The valley, typically teeming with visitors during this season, is now deserted, marked by shuttered shops, restricted roads, and heavy military presence.

According to a report by the Times of India, the aftermath of the attack has prompted immediate shutdowns across Pahalgam. All commercial establishments have been closed under administrative orders, while vehicular movement has been severely restricted. Security checkpoints have been set up across alleyways, and civilian movement is being tightly controlled.

In the wake of the assault, large contingents of heavily armed Indian forces have been deployed throughout the town. Residents say fear is palpable as troops patrol the streets, randomly questioning and detaining locals. “There’s no telling who might be picked up next for interrogation,” said one resident under the condition of anonymity.

Tourists who had flocked to the region just days ago have begun fleeing in large numbers. Some are receiving direct assistance from local police to leave the area, heading toward safer destinations like Jammu. By Wednesday morning, most visitors had already departed, with only a few travel groups remaining, hastily cutting their trips short.

Local businesses have been paralyzed. “I still can’t believe what happened,” said Omar Majid, owner of the once-busy Dana Rasuli restaurant. “Just a day ago, my restaurant was full of customers. Today, I don’t even have the courage to lift the shutters. If this continues, I don’t know how we’ll survive.”

The attack, which occurred in the Baisaran valley near Pahalgam, resulted in the deaths of at least 26 tourists. A militant group known as the Kashmir Resistance has claimed responsibility via a message posted on social media.

In a subsequent statement released on Wednesday, April 23, the group asserted that those targeted were not ordinary tourists but individuals allegedly linked to Indian security agencies.

Indian authorities have responded swiftly. Home Minister Amit Shah arrived in Kashmir on Wednesday and issued a stern warning, vowing to eliminate the perpetrators. Military operations had reportedly already commenced before Shah’s declaration.

The incident marks a grim chapter in the ongoing conflict in Kashmir, with its effects rippling through the lives of locals and the region’s tourism-dependent economy. What was once a symbol of serene natural beauty and peace has, within hours, become a place of fear and uncertainty.