Srinagar, May 28: Jammu and Kashmir government has decided to construct a macadamised road to the picturesque Baisaran Valley, popularly known as ‘Mini Switzerland’.
The decision comes after it took security forces over 45 minutes to trek to the area during the April 22 attack, raising concerns about accessibility and rapid response in emergencies.
The attack had highlighted the logistical difficulties faced by security personnel in reaching the remote meadow, located around 5 km from the main Pahalgam town. Baisaran, a popular tourist destination known for its lush greenery and panoramic views, currently lacks road connectivity. Tourists usually reach the spot on ponies, with local ponywallahs depending on this route for their livelihood.
Member of Legislative Assembly (MLA) Pahalgam, Altaf Kaloo, confirmed that the government has now made the construction of the road a top priority.
A senior official said the recent incident exposed the vulnerability caused by poor infrastructure.
“We cannot afford such delays during emergencies. Work on the road will begin soon,” the official told a local news agency.
He added that while local concerns over the impact of the road on tourism livelihoods were valid, security and accessibility could not be compromised. “We will ensure that the interests of the pony operators are protected. There will be alternate arrangements for their livelihood, and discussions are underway,” he added.
Previously, proposals for the road had been stalled due to opposition from local pony operators, who feared the new road would affect their business. Baisaran has been a major attraction in Pahalgam, with hundreds of tourists riding ponies to the site every day during the tourist season.
However, the recent terror attack has shifted the government’s focus towards enhancing infrastructure and response mechanisms in the region. Officials said that apart from the Baisaran road, other vulnerable areas in the tourist belt are being reviewed for possible connectivity upgrades. (With KINS inputs)