Man’s Zipline Selfie Video Captures Pahalgam Terror Attack as Tourists Flee Amid Gunfire
A tourist’s zipline video in Jammu and Kashmir’s Pahalgam inadvertently captured the chilling first moments of the deadly terror attack that killed 26 people last week.
A video filmed by a man during a zipline ride at Baisaran meadow has emerged, showing tourists running in panic as gunshots ring out. The 53-second clip, starts normally with the zipline operator chanting “Allahu Akbar” before sending the tourist across. Moments later, chaos unfolds on the ground below as people flee for their lives.
More than 100 tourists were present at the scenic meadow when the attack occurred on April 22, according to eyewitness accounts. The video is now part of a broader investigation into the terror incident.
Rishi Bhatt, the man who shot the video while on the zipline, recounted his narrow escape.
“When I took the zipline, one person said Allahu Akbar and moved his head left and right and then the firing started from those sides,” Bhatt told CNN-News18.
He added that he realized the gravity of the situation only after landing and seeing the panic on the ground.
On April 22, terrorists opened fire at Baisaran, a popular tourist destination in Anantnag district. Among those killed were many holidaymakers from other Indian states.
The attack has raised fresh concerns over security arrangements at major tourist hubs in Kashmir, especially ahead of the summer season, a peak time for tourism in the valley.
Besides Bhatt’s footage, several other videos filmed by tourists are now under scrutiny by security agencies. Some videos reportedly show tourists huddled together while gunfire echoes in the background.
Authorities are analyzing these visuals to piece together a more detailed timeline of the attack. Investigators believe the videos could provide crucial leads about the movements and tactics of the assailants.
Security has been ramped up across Kashmir’s tourist hotspots. Officials have advised tourists to remain vigilant and avoid crowded areas without proper security presence.
The Jammu and Kashmir Police are expected to release an update on the investigation in the coming days.
