Srinagar: Tourism Wing Head of the International Human Rights Organization (IHRO), Muhammad Yaqoob Dunoo, has expressed deep sorrow over the tragic attack that took place on April 22, 2025, in Pahalgam, which claimed the lives of 27 innocent tourists and left the entire nation shocked and grieving.
In a statement issued here on Wednesday Dunoo said that following the unfortunate incident, the Government of India ordered the temporary closure of several tourist destinations across Jammu and Kashmir as a precautionary measure to ensure public safety and maintain security. He acknowledged that the move was taken in the larger interest of protecting lives and restoring stability in the valley.
He further stated that over the past several months, most tourist destinations have been reopened in a phased manner after careful review and the implementation of enhanced security arrangements. However, Baisaran, one of the most iconic and economically significant tourist spots in Pahalgam, continues to remain closed to visitors. Dunoo pointed out that Baisaran is not just a scenic attraction but the backbone of livelihood for hundreds of local families. Poor pony walas, tourist guides, small vendors, and daily wage earners rely heavily on the tourism season for their survival. With the upcoming tourism season fast approaching, the continued closure of the destination is causing severe economic hardship for these families, many of whom have no alternative source of income.
In light of the improved security situation and the phased reopening of other tourist destinations, Dunoo made a humble appeal to Manoj Sinha Lieutenant Governor Jammu and Kashmir, Gajendra Singh Shekhawat Union Tourism Minister and Amit Shah Union Home Minister to kindly reconsider the decision regarding Baisaran and facilitate its reopening with adequate security measures in place. He emphasized that reopening Baisaran would help restore confidence among tourists, revive economic activity in the region, and provide much-needed relief to the local population whose livelihoods are directly tied to tourism. “Reviving Baisaran is not just about reopening a tourist spot. It is about restoring hope and dignity to hundreds of families who depend entirely on tourism for their survival,” Dunoo said.
