Empty Markets, Fading Cheer as Recent Indo-Pak Tensions Leaves Valley in Shock
SUHAIL KHAN
Srinagar, June 04: Amid the economic fallout of recent Indo-Pak tensions, Kashmiris cling to hope for revival as Eid-ul-Azha draws near.
With the festival just a day away, markets across the valley remain unusually quiet—devoid of buyers, the usual hustle and bustle, and the festive fervor that typically accompanies the occasion. Residents are still grappling with the trauma of heightened Indo-Pak tensions earlier this month.
The vibrant energy that usually sweeps through Kashmir two weeks before Eid is conspicuously absent this year. Public enthusiasm remains muted, and business activity has failed to rebound fully following the Pahalgam terror attack and subsequent cross-border tensions. Local leaders, including Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha and former Chief Minister Omar Abdullah, are striving to revive commerce in the shell-shocked valley.
Sadiq, a prominent baker in Srinagar, lamented the bleak market conditions, stating that businesses have been severely affected, leaving the markets lifeless. “It doesn’t even feel like Eid is around the corner,” he said, though many remain hopeful for a turnaround in trade and tourism.
He added that Kashmir typically witnesses a shopping frenzy ahead of Eid, but with barely a week left, there is little sign of activity or celebration.
Salman, a ready-made clothing shop owner, echoed similar concerns, noting the absence of the usual pre-Eid bustle in Srinagar and other Kashmiri markets. He expressed dismay over the heavy losses businesses are incurring due to the recent Indo-Pak tensions.
“The people are distressed, but they haven’t lost hope. Everyone is praying for peace to return swiftly,” he added.
Traders in Lal Chowk reported that the customary Eid shopping rush is missing, with overall sales plummeting by nearly 70 percent.
They described the Pahalgam attack as a devastating blow to the valley, crippling not just tourism but all sectors of commerce.
“Around Eid, people usually splurge on food and clothing, but this year, even that is lacking,” said a group of traders in Baramulla, North Kashmir.
They added that in previous years, shoppers would buy garments weeks in advance, but now, with Eid just days away, buyers are scarce, and business has dropped drastically.
The crisis began after a deadly terror attack in Pahalgam on April 22, which claimed the lives of 26 tourists. India blamed Pakistan, suspended the Indus Waters Treaty, and launched ‘Operation Sindoor,’ targeting alleged militant bases in Pakistan-administered Kashmir.
The threat of war loomed until an unexpected ceasefire was declared. While life in Jammu and Kashmir is gradually returning to normal—schools have reopened, and transport services have resumed—an undercurrent of fear persists.
However, with the slow return of tourists, hope is rekindling among those affiliated with the tourism industry, who look forward to a revival in business.
Tourist destinations like Gulmarg are beginning to regain life, with locals holding onto faith for a full recovery.
