Daijiworld Media Network- Mumbai
Mumbai, Apr 25: Tourists who were stranded in Jammu and Kashmir following the horrific terror attack in Pahalgam are now returning home safely, expressing heartfelt gratitude towards the Central and Maharashtra governments for ensuring their safe evacuation.
Several tourists who arrived in Mumbai on Thursday recounted their harrowing experiences and praised the coordinated rescue efforts. Speaking to IANS, they shared emotional moments of relief and appreciation for the authorities.
Nidhi, a tourist who had travelled to Srinagar, said, “It feels really good to be back in Mumbai. I sincerely thank the Central and Maharashtra governments for helping us return safely from Srinagar. I was scheduled to visit Pahalgam on April 22, but due to unforeseen reasons, I couldn't. Later, I heard about the terror attack.”
She added that after the attack, tourists were advised to remain in their hotels. “The government stood by us and constantly reassured us that we were not alone,” she said.
Kamal Kishore, a senior citizen who was in Srinagar for a Ram Katha event, said, “I wasn’t in Pahalgam at the time of the attack. Once the news came in, the event was postponed. It was a scary time, but we were kept safe.”
Nitin Chatre, another returning tourist, noted, “Many stranded people are being flown back home. I found out about the attack through news channels. The Centre acted promptly and responsibly.”
A woman tourist recalled her narrow escape. “I had reached Kashmir on April 17 and was just 20 minutes away from Pahalgam when the attack occurred. I truly thank the Maharashtra and Central governments. Maharashtra Deputy CM Eknath Shinde personally met us, which brought a sense of calm.”
Another tourist added, “After three days of fear and uncertainty, today is the first time I smiled. I am grateful to the government for bringing me back safely.”
An elderly traveller shared, “There is a mix of sadness, grief, and relief. What happened in Pahalgam was horrifying, but I’m thankful to be home.”
Several others echoed similar sentiments, emphasizing that while the beauty of Kashmir left a mark on their hearts, the tragic events in Pahalgam left behind deep sorrow. Many also acknowledged the assistance of local residents in Kashmir who stood by them during the tense hours.
Tourists said that while Srinagar remained peaceful for the most part, the attack in Pahalgam shook everyone’s sense of safety. The swift and efficient response by the authorities helped calm fears and ensured the safe return of those stranded.