Excelsior Correspondent
SRINAGAR, May 28: Scores of pony operators in Pahalgam today urged the government to reopen major sightseeing spots that were closed following the April 22 terror attack.
The attack, which killed 25 tourists and a local pony operator, led authorities to shut down several key locations, including Baisaran-where the incident occurred-on security grounds.
As tourist activity gradually resumes in Pahalgam, many pony operators, out of work for over a month, say they are desperate to return to their jobs. “We want to work. Our families are suffering,” said Rayees Ahmad Bhat, president of Tourist Pony Stand 2.
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Bhat said the protest aimed to demand the reopening of spots other than Baisaran, which remains closed due to an ongoing investigation by the National Investigation Agency (NIA). “Without pony wallas, Pahalgam is incomplete. We request the government to allow us to operate in places like Betaab Valley, Pahalgam Valley, Deer Park, the old Shikargah, and Sangam Point. We cannot survive like this,” he said.
Following the attack, authorities sealed several tourist destinations, including Baisaran, Betaab Valley, Aru Valley, Chandanwari, and nearby parks, citing safety concerns.
Although the Chief Minister chaired a special cabinet meeting on Tuesday and assured the reopening of some spots to revive tourism, pony operators say no formal orders have been issued. “Yesterday, we were told that Betaab Valley and local parks would reopen. But today, when we checked with our union officers, they said there is no written confirmation,” said Gulzar Ahmad Wani, a local pony operator.
He added that horse riding was the first tourism activity in the region. “Everything started with horses-long before hotels and taxis,” he said.
Operators say their livelihoods were “severely dented” after the attack and stress that reopening selected areas would help them recover. “We appeal to the Lieutenant Governor, who is visiting tomorrow, to issue clear orders. Poor horse owners cannot wait anymore,” Wani said.
Another protester emphasized that horse rides are central to Pahalgam’s identity. “The minister said roads will be built to Baisaran-which we do not oppose. But if there are no horses, what is Pahalgam? Tourists stay for four days-hoteliers earn, taxi drivers earn, and we horsemen earn. Everyone benefits,” he said.
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