Vadodara Tourists Return Safely After J&K Attack
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Synopsis
A group of 23 tourists from Vadodara who were stranded in Jammu and Kashmir following the Pahalgam terror attack have returned home safely. They expressed gratitude for the support they received from locals during their ordeal.
Key Takeaways
- 23 tourists from Vadodara stranded in J&K
- Grateful for local support during crisis
- Faced challenges but no direct harm
- Call for improved tourist security
- Safe return after a tense experience
Vadodara, April 26 (NationPress) Tourists hailing from Vadodara, who found themselves stranded in Jammu and Kashmir following the Pahalgam terror attack, have safely returned home on Saturday.
Twenty-three tourists made their way back to Vadodara, bringing great relief to their families.
The travelers expressed their heartfelt appreciation for the assistance received from local Kashmiris during the ordeal.
Upon arriving home, they shared that even amidst the tension, residents provided them with invaluable support.
“We were treated with kindness and humanity. The locals reminded us, 'We also have mothers, sisters, and families. You can trust us,'” recounted a female tourist.
She highlighted how locals generously provided them with meals, safe transportation, and shelter as required.
“One night around 10 p.m., when we were stranded, a local family offered to drive us in their own car and even invited us to stay at their home,” she added.
Many locals were also distressed by the attack, acknowledging that incidents like this complicate the rebuilding of trust. The tourists had initially planned to explore Pahalgam but had to revise their plans due to safety concerns.
They made their way from Srinagar to Jammu at their own expense, collectively spending nearly Rs 25,000 to guarantee their safety.
Despite the challenges, they reported that they experienced no direct harm.
“Kashmiris and Army personnel were extremely supportive,” stated one traveler.
“Our only request to the government is to enhance security in areas frequented by tourists. Regions lacking adequate security should remain closed to visitors,” another tourist expressed.
Many travelers described their experience navigating curfew conditions, remaining confined to their hotel rooms, and coordinating their exit under strict regulations. Throughout the ordeal, they kept in contact with their worried families back home.
Now returned safely, they expressed immense relief and gratitude, cherishing their safe homecoming after what could have been a far more tragic situation.
