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Following the tragic terrorist attack in Pahalgam, Jammu and Kashmir, the Maharashtra government has swiftly intervened to facilitate the safe return of stranded tourists. In a well-coordinated effort, four special flights have been arranged to bring tourists back to Mumbai, with a total of 520 individuals safely returning so far.
As per ANI, Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde personally visited Kashmir to oversee the operation and ensure the swift repatriation of tourists. His hands-on approach has been crucial in bringing a sense of reassurance to the stranded tourists. "I met many of our stranded tourists - tired, anxious, but resilient. It was heartening to see their spirits lift just by knowing that their government is with them, on the ground. I'm here not just as Deputy CM, but as a fellow Maharashtrian - to stand by them, reassure them, and personally coordinate their safe return home," Shinde remarked, according to ANI.
The first flight, operated by private carrier Star Airlines, departed at 1:00 AM last night, carrying 75 tourists bound for Mumbai. Two more flights from Akasa Air followed, departing Srinagar at 2 PM and 5 PM on Thursday. These flights brought back 370 passengers, with the first arriving in Mumbai at 7 PM, and the second at approximately 9 PM. Additionally, another Star Airlines flight took off at 8 PM on Thursday, carrying 75 more passengers. This flight is expected to land in Mumbai late at night.
According to ANI, Shiv Sena also ensured that returning tourists were safely transported to their homes by arranging special buses. With the completion of these four flights, the Maharashtra government has successfully facilitated the return of 520 tourists thus far.
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The swift action by the state government has been instrumental in alleviating the distress of tourists who were caught in the aftermath of the terrorist attack. The coordinated effort also highlights the state's commitment to ensuring the safety and well-being of its citizens, even in the face of such adversity.
The terrorist attack in Pahalgam, which occurred on Tuesday, claimed the lives of 26 individuals, with several others injured. This was one of the deadliest attacks in the region since the 2019 Pulwama strike, in which 40 CRPF personnel lost their lives. The Indian government has responded with strong countermeasures against Pakistan, which is accused of supporting cross-border terrorism.
(With inputs from ANI)
