PANAJI: Around 30-40 Goan, vacationing in Jammu and Kashmir, have been stranded in Srinagar after the deadly militant attack at Pahalgam in South Kashmir, yesterday.
Atleast 10 terrorists opened fire at Baisaran meadows, famously known as 'Mini Switzerland', killing 26 tourists, including two foreigners, and injuring several others.
In the wake of the incident, all visitors were swiftly evacuated from Pahalgam and surrounding areas and relocated to hotels in Srinagar for their safety.
Speaking to The Goan, Ahraz Mulla, co-founder of Panaji-based tour agency Goa Adventure Club, confirmed that all Goan tourists are safe. “A group of Goans was in the Pahalgam market when the firing started, while another group was in Sonamarg. Both groups have been brought back to Srinagar and are safe,” Mulla said.
He added that his company had organised a tour for 34 people to Pahalgam and another 12 to Jammu. “The group in Pahalgam had arrived on April 17 and was scheduled to return on April 24. We are trying to arrange for their immediate return,” Mulla stated.
However, the group in Jammu has been stranded due to a landslide, further complicating their return. “Flights are running at full capacity, making it difficult to get them back quickly,” Mulla said.
Other travel agencies also have their clients stranded in Srinagar while confirming they were safe. These agencies also confirmed they are in regular contact with the travellers there.
