Kashmir Impulse Desk

Srinagar, April 22 

Residents and visitors gathered in Pahalgam on Tuesday to observe a silent tribute marking one year since 26 civilians were killed in the attack in Baisaran, as authorities stepped up security across the region.

The ceremony took place at a memorial near the town’s popular selfie point, where people laid flowers, lit candles and observed moments of silence in remembrance of those killed in the April 22, 2025 attack in Baisaran.

The area, once a bustling tourist hub, fell quiet as locals, tourists and activists, including members of Shiv Sena, assembled for the commemoration.

“It feels like yesterday. The silence they left behind still echoes in our homes and hearts,” said a tour operator present at the site.

Residents said the anniversary revived painful memories of the attack, which triggered panic and led to a sharp drop in tourism in the region.

Security forces, including personnel from the Central Reserve Police Force, were deployed in large numbers across Pahalgam, with checkpoints set up along major routes and drone surveillance monitoring the area. 

Officials also carried out early morning patrols as a precaution.

“We gather here not only to remember those we lost, but to reaffirm our commitment to peace and unity,” a senior CRPF officer said.

Police said additional security measures were in place across Kashmir, particularly at tourist locations, amid expectations of commemorative events.

The 2025 attack led authorities to temporarily close dozens of tourist sites in Jammu and Kashmir, reopening them in phases after security reviews. 

Officials said tourism has since resumed in Pahalgam, often dubbed ‘Mini Switzerland,’ with new safety measures introduced.

These include background checks for service providers and a QR code-based identification system allowing visitors and authorities to verify registered operators.

A senior Police officer said security arrangements had been strengthened around vulnerable sites to ensure visitor safety, following a recent review meeting attended by multiple agencies.

Despite the heightened security presence, the anniversary events concluded peacefully, with participants dispersing after paying their respects.