Tourist parks, Pahalgam reopen i n J&K after terror attack

Several popular parks in Jammu and Kashmir's prominent tourist destinations, including those in Pahalgam, have officially reopened today, Tuesday, after being closed in the aftermath of the devastating terror attack on April 22. The attack in Baisaran meadows, Pahalgam, tragically claimed the lives of 26 people, mostly tourists. The move to reopen these sites has been met with enthusiasm by both visiting tourists and local residents, who were seen flocking to the revitalized green spaces.

To ensure the safety and restore confidence among visitors, security personnel have been deployed in significant numbers around all reopened parks. This measure is part of a comprehensive strategy to secure the areas and foster a sense of security for everyone. The reopening follows an order issued by Jammu and Kashmir Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha on Saturday, mandating the phased reopening of 16 parks—eight each in the Jammu region and the Kashmir Valley.

In the initial phase, eight parks across the Kashmir valley have been reopened. These include Betaab Valley in Pahalgam, parks near Pahalgam market, Verinag, Kokernag, and Achabal gardens in Anantnag district, along with Badamwari Park, Duck Park near Nigeen, and Taqdeer Park near Hazratbal in Srinagar. Similarly, eight destinations in the Jammu region, such as Sarthal and Dhaggar in Kathua, Devipindi, Siyad Baba and Sula Park in Reasi, Guldanda and Jai Valley in Doda, and Pancheri in Udhampur, have also welcomed back visitors. Tourists expressed delight at the reopening, with many appealing to others to visit Kashmir in large numbers, while tourist police personnel have been stationed to assist them.