India has temporarily closed over half of its tourist resorts in Kashmir following a deadly attack on tourists that killed 26 people, mostly Indian visitors. The decision comes as tensions between India and Pakistan escalate, with both countries accusing each other of backing the attack.
At least two police officers and administrative officials confirmed the shutdowns of 48 out of 87 government-authorized resorts, citing safety concerns. The move has dealt a significant blow to Kashmir’s struggling tourism industry, which saw a surge in visitors last year.
The attack occurred near Pahalgam resort town, where gunmen targeted Hindu men, killing some and wounding others. Indian officials have accused Pakistan of backing the attack, while Pakistan denies any involvement.
Cross-border tensions have increased, with soldiers exchanging fire along the Line of Control. The US State Department has urged deescalation, and Secretary of State Marco Rubio is set to speak with his counterparts from India and Pakistan soon.
Over 2,000 people, mostly former rebels, have been detained on suspicion of links to militants. Demolitions of suspected militant homes have also sparked concerns about collective punishment.
The Kashmir tourism industry is reeling from the cancellations, with estimates suggesting over 1 million tourists may not visit this year. The region’s scenic beauty and unique attractions have made it an increasingly popular destination in recent years, but the current tensions threaten to scare off visitors.
Source: https://apnews.com/article/kashmir-india-pakistan-pahalgam-tourism-3e90fd13c173505f4d75a2027f157925