Srinagar/Mumbai: In response to the tragic terrorist attack in Pahalgam, Jammu and Kashmir, the Maharashtra government has taken swift action to ensure the safe return of stranded tourists from the region. So far, 520 tourists have been brought back to Mumbai via four specially arranged flights.
Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde personally visited Jammu and Kashmir to oversee rescue and coordination efforts. Speaking about the situation, he said, “I met many of our stranded tourists—tired, anxious, but resilient. It was heartening to see their spirits lift just by knowing their government is with them on the ground. I’m here not just as the Deputy CM but as a fellow Maharashtrian to stand with them and ensure their safe return.”
The first flight, operated by Star Airlines, departed from Srinagar at 1:00 AM, carrying 75 passengers to Mumbai. Later in the day, two Akasa Air flights transported 370 more tourists—one arriving in Mumbai at 7:00 PM and the other around 9:00 PM. A second Star Airlines flight departed at 8:00 PM with another 75 passengers on board.
To further assist the returnees, Shiv Sena arranged special buses to transport the tourists from the airport to their respective homes safely.
The rescue operation is being carried out under the direct supervision of Deputy CM Eknath Shinde and MP Dr Shrikant Shinde. The Maharashtra government remains active on the ground in Jammu and Kashmir, continuing efforts to bring back all remaining tourists.
The repatriation follows a horrific terrorist attack on Tuesday at Baisaran meadow in Pahalgam, which claimed the lives of 26 individuals and left several injured. It marks one of the deadliest incidents in the region since the 2019 Pulwama terror strike.
In response to the attack, India has intensified its counterterrorism stance and taken diplomatic and strategic measures against Pakistan for its alleged support of cross-border terrorism.
