National: In response to the recent terror attack in Pahalgam, located in the Anantnag district of Kashmir, the Civil Aviation Ministry has swiftly organized the deployment of four additional flights scheduled for Wednesday. These extra services include two flights destined for Delhi and another two for Mumbai, specifically aimed at facilitating the evacuation of tourists currently present in the region.
This decisive action comes as a direct outcome of urgent high-level deliberations held between Union Civil Aviation Minister Ram Mohan Naidu and Union Home Minister Amit Shah. The Civil Aviation Ministry has officially stated its active engagement with various airlines to ensure that airfares remain stable during this period of increased demand. Furthermore, the ministry has affirmed its readiness to introduce even more flights should the prevailing situation necessitate further evacuation efforts.
The attack, which occurred on Tuesday, has been described as one of the most significant incidents of violence witnessed in the region since the abrogation of Article 370 in 2019. The event has triggered widespread condemnation across the nation and has resulted in numerous protests. While official figures regarding casualties are still pending release, the attack has undeniably had a profound impact on the tourism-dependent region, prompting urgent calls for enhanced security measures.
Demonstrating a unified front, various political parties and traders’ unions throughout Kashmir have jointly announced a complete shutdown in solidarity with the victims and in protest against the violence. In a gesture of support and mourning, Union Home Minister Amit Shah personally visited Srinagar to pay his respects to those who lost their lives, participating in a wreath-laying ceremony held outside the Police Control Room.
Following the attack, security forces have initiated extensive and comprehensive search operations that are currently underway in and around the Pahalgam area. A visible increase in security personnel deployments has been observed across the region as authorities work to maintain order and conduct investigations. Footage emerging from the area depicts normally vibrant and bustling tourist streets now largely deserted.
The public response to the tragic event has been significant and widespread. Candlelight vigils have been organized and held in various locations including Baramulla, Srinagar, Poonch, Kupwara, and Akhoor, reflecting the collective grief and concern. Simultaneously, Bajrang Dal workers in Jammu have staged protests to voice their condemnation of the attack. Further underscoring the seriousness of the situation, calls for a Jammu bandh have also been made.
Authorities have emphasized that they remain on high alert and are taking the situation with utmost seriousness. The government has issued assurances to the public that all necessary and appropriate measures are being actively implemented to ensure the safety and security of all residents and visitors in the region.
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