The terrorists are thought to have been able to carry out the slaughter and flee before security authorities could reach Pahalgam’s Baisaran meadow because of its isolated position, which is only reachable on foot or by pony ride down a dirt track. Over the years, economic interests and the vote-bank politics of succeeding administrations have kept Baisaran, a popular tourist destination, from having a motorable road.
Government attempts to build a genuine all-weather motorable road up to the Baisaran valley, sometimes referred to as “mini Switzerland,” have been strongly opposed by Ponywallahs, a significant portion of the electorate. Over the years, local officials have exclusively catered to one group of voters and neglected to build the road.
Since tourists are the ponywallahs’ only source of income, a proper road to Baisaran will have a significant negative influence on their revenues. The construction of a metalled road would allow visitors to drive directly to Baisaran. The 6.5 miles of dirt track are now covered by horses in 40–50 minutes. When the terrorists carried out the attack in Baisaran, which claimed the lives of 25 visitors and a local ponywallah, they took advantage of this circumstance.
Furthermore, investigators think that Baisaran’s lack of a strong security presence is one of the main reasons the terrorists choose the area for the attack. The attackers knew that rescue efforts would be delayed due to the lack of road access, which further increased the possibility of casualties.
Four terrorists carried out the attack, which led to India’s retaliatory Operation Sindoor. One entered through the exit gate, while two entered through the entry gate. Perhaps to offer assistance, the fourth terrorist was positioned in the forest.
The J&K government has expedited plans to build a good metalled road that would connect Pahalgam with Baisaran in the wake of the attack. Altaf Kaloo, the Pahalgam MLA, stated that the project has been given top priority and will be finished as soon as feasible. “The road will now be constructed. Who attempted to stop the construction is unknown to me. Road improvement remains our top priority,” Kaloo stated.
