Jahangeer Ganaie
Pahalgam, Apr 24: “Kashmir is incomplete without the arrival of tourists; their presence lights up the lamps in our homes,” said Sajad Ahmad, a youth from Ganeshbal area of Pahalgam, who heroically carried an injured tourist on his back to a hospital following the recent attack.
Speaking to the news agency—Kashmir News Observer (KNO), Sajad recounted the harrowing events after the attack. He said that after receiving information from the Ponny Association President via a WhatsApp group about the incident, he and his companions rushed to the scene, aware that many tourists were in Baisaran at the time.
Upon arrival, he was confronted with a scene of chaos and devastation. “We first gave water to the tourists and then began to lift the injured who were unable to move,” Sajad said, describing how he helped several injured individuals by carrying them to safety.
Sajad said humanity should prevail. “What we did was based purely on humanity,” he said. His selfless actions have captured the attention of many, as a video of him carrying an injured tourist has gone viral on social media, earning widespread admiration.
“I didn’t care about my own safety,” Sajad recalled, his voice filled with emotion. “When we got there, everyone was pleading for help, crying out in anguish. It brought tears to my eyes as well.”
He highlighted the critical role that tourists play in the local economy, saying, “Kashmir is incomplete without them. Their arrival ensures that our homes are filled with light.”
Sajad said that local hoteliers, cab drivers, shop owners, pony walas and guides all depend on tourism for their livelihoods. “We must do everything possible to ensure the tourism sector is not negatively impacted. The government must take immediate steps to protect this vital industry,” he added, urging both the people and authorities to prioritise a safe and welcoming environment for tourists—(KNO)
