Once bustling with tourists, Valley's border areas wear a deserted look

As tensions between India and Pakistan run high in the aftermath of the Pahalgam terror attack, the border tourism sites closed to the Line of Control (LOC), which were bustling with activity not too long ago, wear a deserted look.

- Mir Ehsan

SRINAGAR:

The destinations such as Kaman, Teetwal, Keran, Gurez and Machil, had grown in popularity over the past few years, only to be lost in the long shadow cast by the Pahalgam terror attack.

The terror attack at Baisaran meadow in Pahalgam on April 22 claimed 26 lives, 25 tourists and a local. After the attack, India announced a slew of punitive measures against Pakistan, and the later retorted. Since, tensions have been high between the two neighbouring nations, prompting a return of fear of shelling in these areas. The locals have cleaned up the bunkers which were not in use as peace had prevailed in these areas.

In the past four to five years, these destinations had become symbols of peace after renewed ceasefire between India and Pakistan in 2021.