In a sweeping and precautionary security move, officials in Jammu and Kashmir have shut down access to nearly 50 public parks and gardens across the Kashmir Valley. The measure has been taken in response to heightened threat perceptions and ongoing security operations after a recent terror attack that shook the region.

Why were the parks and gardens shut?

The decision comes just days after the deadly April 22 terror strike at Baisaran meadows in Pahalgam, a scenic location in South Kashmir, which led to civilian casualties and marked the worst such incident since the abrogation of Article 370 in 2019. The security apparatus, shaken by the attack, has now turned cautious, leading to extensive surveillance and temporary closure of sensitive tourist zones.

Though no formal government notification has been issued regarding the shutdown, the decision was implemented swiftly on the ground. As of now, 48 out of 87 designated tourist parks and gardens have been locked, with gates sealed and movement restricted, especially for non-local tourists.

Which areas are affected?

The closures are particularly impacting remote and sensitive areas that have recently gained popularity among tourists and travel vloggers for their untouched beauty and natural landscapes. These include:

• Dooshpathri

• Kokernag

• Duksum

• Sinthan Top

• Acchabal

• Bangus Valley

• Margan Top

• Tosamaidan

Additionally, in South Kashmir, access to iconic Mughal Gardens has been heavily restricted, further dampening the region’s spring tourism season.

According to officials, more spots could be added to the list, depending on real-time threat assessments and the status of ongoing security operations.

What triggered the heightened alert?

The Baisaran attack—which claimed multiple civilian lives—has jolted security forces and the administration. It was the deadliest civilian-targeted attack in Kashmir in nearly six years, signaling a potential return of high-profile militant activities timed around the tourist season and elections.

Security forces believe that such public places, especially those popular with both domestic and foreign tourists, may be soft targets for groups seeking media attention and disruption.

As a result, the Valley is witnessing an increased presence of armed forces, intensified frisking at entry checkpoints, and drone surveillance over major towns and tourist belts.

No official notification, but action implemented

Even though there is no official government circular or public notification, the move is not informal. Local officials and district administration teams have been instructed to enforce closures quietly but effectively, to avoid panic among residents while maintaining full operational control.

Travelers and local guides have reported that entry gates have been locked, and police personnel are stationed at many access roads, advising tourists to return or choose alternative locations.

The quiet implementation strategy seems to be part of a larger counter-insurgency and civilian protection policy, where information is restricted to avoid speculation and fear-mongering.

Impact on tourism and local economy

The Valley had just begun to see a revival in tourism, with record-breaking footfalls during the last few seasons and significant investment in hospitality and adventure tourism. Spring is typically the busiest time in Kashmir, with gardens in full bloom and families flocking in from across India.

However, with close to 55% of tourist spots now inaccessible, many hotels, transporters, and local businesses are facing last-minute cancellations and uncertainty.

Local tourism stakeholders have urged the administration to issue clear advisories and timelines, if any, to allow for better planning. There is also concern that indefinite closures without explanations could damage the Valley’s reputation as a safe travel destination.

Ongoing operations and risk zones

Security agencies have reportedly narrowed down certain areas as “high-risk” zones. These include routes and destinations that are:

• Close to forest fringes and mountainous terrain

• Near Line of Control (LoC) regions

• Have less mobile network coverage

• Previously marked by militant activity or infiltration routes

The risk matrix used by security forces involves both geographic and human intelligence (HUMINT) data, combined with recent infiltration trends from across the border.

Operations are currently underway in parts of Kupwara, Shopian, Anantnag, and Kulgam, where militant presence has been reported by intelligence agencies. These areas may continue to remain under lockdown-like restrictions until further notice.

What happens next?

Authorities have not provided a definitive date for reopening, stating that it will depend entirely on how the security situation evolves in the coming weeks. However, senior officials confirmed that they are monitoring each region closely and assessing the possibility of reopening tourist areas in phases.

Until then, tourists are advised to avoid planning trips to the affected destinations and instead opt for alternative places with verified safety clearance, such as Srinagar city zones or areas north of Baramulla.

Travel agencies have also been instructed to ensure tourists have real-time updates from district tourism offices, and avoid sending travelers to zones with restricted access.

In summary, the sudden closure of 48 tourist locations in Kashmir is a direct consequence of an increased terror threat and a strategic decision to safeguard civilian life and prevent further incidents. While it is a temporary setback for the tourism industry, officials insist that the measures are necessary and proactive to prevent loss of life and maintain peace in the Valley.

The Upcoming IPOs in this week and coming weeks are  Wagons Learning, Srigee DLM, Manoj Jewellers.

The Current active IPO are Kenrik Industries,Arunaya Organics, Ather Energy, Iware Supplychain Services.

Start your Stock Market Journey and Apply in IPO by Opening Free Demat Account in Choice Broking FinX.

Join our Trading with CA Abhay Telegram Channel for regular Stock Market Trading and Investment Calls by CA Abhay Varn - SEBI Registered Research Analyst.