Indian expats from Dubai narrowly escape Pahalgam terror attack by a day

Dubai: Two UAE residents had a remarkably close call, having left the Pahalgam area of Kashmir just a day before the deadly terror attack that occurred on the evening of Tuesday, April 22. The couple, Sai Krishnan and Bhoomi Lengde, who arrived in Kashmir on Sunday, April 20, said they spent Sunday exploring the Baisaran Valley area in Pahalgam – well known as the mini Switzerland of India.

Speaking to Gulf News from Kashmir, Krishnan confirmed that they had left the incident site a full day before the attack that shook the region. “We left Pahalgam on Monday evening and were headed back [to Srinagar] when we found out about the attacks.” The site of the attacks is a popular spot for tourists in the summer, some 90 km by road from the key city of Srinagar.

 “What happened was scary. Our parents did want us to leave Kashmir immediately. However, many tourists were trying to leave the State, and it made no sense to add to the panic by rushing to the airport,” he said. “We decided to just go ahead with our travel plans,” Krishnan added. Indian carriers are operating additional flights to help tourists leave the region.

Gunmen opened fire on a group of tourists, resulting in at least 26 deaths and several injuries, making it the worst assault on civilians in the region in recent years.

The Dubai residents said increased security measures were being implemented in Kashmir. “The BSF (India’s Border Security Forces) have stepped in,” said Krishnan.

“Certain routes, including those to sensitive border areas, were operating with restrictions and requiring permits,” he added.

Their initial itinerary included visiting the Kargil War Memorial. They had to cancel those plans due to the developing security situation. The couple are scheduled to fly back to Dubai on Friday morning.

The couple, who were on their first trip to Kashmir, had chosen the destination for its pleasant weather. Reflecting on their experience, he added, “I will say any place that is up north of India, especially border areas, is prone to risks. But this time of the year in Kashmir is very beautiful,” he added.

Despite the proximity to the terror attack, the residents expressed that their experience in Srinagar and the surrounding areas was largely positive. “Everything was fine because many tourists [were] coming into Srinagar after what happened,” said Bhoomi, adding that locals were very welcoming and informative. “Hotels have been providing hourly updates and flexibility to tourists who wish to change their plans,” she said.

The local community even extended remarkable hospitality, with residents using local chat groups to offer accommodation and support to stranded tourists, providing free food and shelter, said Krishnan.

Despite the unfortunate incident, the Dubai residents said they felt safe enough to continue their journey and expressed deep appreciation for the warmth and hospitality they experienced from the local people.