Srinagar, Apr 26 (KNO): Mohammed Irfan, a 12-year-old boy from Uttar Pradesh, had come to Kashmir nearly a month ago to assist his uncle during the bustling holiday season. Stationed at his uncle’s fast-food shop near the iconic Rajbagh Zero Bridge, Irfan’s hopes of supporting his family were abruptly shattered following the tragic terrorist attack in Pahalgam on April 22, which claimed the lives of 27 people, predominantly tourists.
The attack has severely impacted Kashmir's tourism and local economies, triggering widespread fear among potential visitors. This has led to several cancellations of hotel bookings and travel plans, leaving popular tourist markets in Pahalgam, Gulmarg and even Srinagar deserted.
Speaking to the news agency—Kashmir News Observer (KNO), Irfan shared his disappointment. "I came to help my uncle during my school holidays, but now things have changed," he said.
The restaurant, "Muradabadi & Hyderabadi Biryani", owned by Irfan's uncle Mohammad Ismail, has seen a drastic drop in customers due to the attack, with Ismail expressing concerns about having to close the shop and return home.
Other shopkeepers in the Rajbagh described the situation as an “irreparable loss” to the tourism economy. "This is peak season for us, the time we rely on to sustain our livelihoods for the entire year. The attack has frightened tourists and devastated our income," said Ismail.
Meanwhile, security measures have been heightened at major tourist destinations to restore traveller confidence, with increased patrols and additional security personnel deployed.
Officials from the tourism department are actively engaging with travel associations across the country to reassure them about the enhanced security measures in place.
For little Irfan, the dream of experiencing the beauty of Kashmir and contributing to his family’s income has been transformed into a distressing reality.
Standing by his uncle's biryani stall, he looked anxiously at the empty streets, hoping that peace would return soon so he could continue his small but meaningful journey—(KNO)