50 Pune Residents Staying in Kashmir Amid Crisis
Says Good Security and Local Hospitality Are Enough to Spend a Whole Life Here
Suhail Khan
Srinagar, April 29 : Despite the recent deadly terror attack in Pahalgam, which has raised safety concerns among tourists about visiting Kashmir, how’ver Pune residents continue to see the region as a secure and welcoming destination—one where they could even imagine living permanently.
This trust stems from the hospitality of the local people and the robust security provided by the administration. Despite last week’s devastating attack in Pahalgam, which claimed the lives of 28 tourists, around 50 visitors from Pune chose to travel to Kashmir and stay there—reaffirming their faith in both the region’s safety and the warmth of its people.
Speaking Exclusively with Kashmir Despatch, Amol, a resident of Pune, expressed his happiness about enjoying time with his family in the beautiful regions of Kashmir. “It’s safe and feels absolutely like home here, thanks to the love and support from the local people who have made me feel very secure,” he said.
Amol countered claims that Kashmir is unsafe for tourists, stating, “It’s absolutely peaceful and an amazing place to visit. It’s very safe here; the people of Kashmir ensure that no tourist feels insecure. They truly cooperate, respect, and protect us in every possible way.”
He acknowledged the concerns regarding visiting Kashmir, especially following the attack in Pahalgam, but assured, “Based on my experiences here, I can say that both the people and the administration of Kashmir are making us feel secure in a fantastic way.”
Pertinently, Pune District Collector Jitendra Dudi on Tuesday informed that out of 650 people stuck in Kashmir, 50 have voluntarily decided to stay back and 600 have reached their homes.
“In the first two days, we were in contact with everyone and planned accordingly. Some people decided to stay there because of the good arrangements made by the local Kashmiris and the security they received,” Dudi said.
“Due to the efforts of the administration, most people have reached their homes safely, while those who are still there are being continuously monitored,” he added.
Pune district administration had launched a helpline and brought residents of the district back from Kashmir after the death of two Pune residents in the Pahalgam terror attack.
Another tourist, Sanjeev from Maharashtra, said that there is no need to worry. “Everything is fine here; everything is back on track.” He also urged people not to pay heed to the rumors about Kashmir and encouraged them to plan a visit to this beautiful part of India, stating, “It’s completely peaceful and safe.”
Meanwhile, Pahalgam’s markets, which had been empty since the attack, showed signs of revival as tourists returned, lifting the morale of local business owners.
Suhail Khan is a filmmaker, content writer, and freelance journalist.
