Tourist’s Zipline Adventure Inadvertently Catches Unfolding Horror In Kashmir

A thrilling zipline adventure turned nightmarish in Pahalgam, Kashmir, as a tourist inadvertently recorded a terror attack that claimed 26 lives.

Key Takeaways

Tourist Rishi Bhatt unknowingly captured a terror attack in Kashmir while ziplining.
The attack took place on April 22 in Baisaran meadow; 26 people were killed.
Pakistani militants were believed responsible, escalating India-Pakistan tensions.
India responded with military actions and suspended a key treaty with Pakistan.
The international community condemned the attack and called for restraint.

Terror Attack on Zipline Adventure

On April 22, 2025, a peaceful zipline ride above Pahalgam turned into a tragedy. Tourist Rishi Bhatt, capturing the experience on his camera, inadvertently filmed the chaotic scene below where a terrorist assault unfolded. The attack occurred in Baisaran meadow, an area known for its breathtaking landscapes, where gunfire erupted, killing 26 people. Initial reports attribute the incident to the Resistance Front, a militant group linked to Pakistani terror networks.

The attack claimed the lives of many Hindu tourists, causing widespread fear and anger. Many targeted were those unable to recite Islamic prayers. The gruesome event not only shattered the peace of the serene location but also intensified ongoing diplomatic tensions between India and Pakistan. Security forces were quick to respond, detaining around 500 individuals in connection with the attack as part of a massive investigation.

#PahalgamTerrorAttack | The tourist, Rishi Bhatt from Ahmedabad, who was seen enjoying a zipline ride & unknowingly filmed the attack, reveals the chilling reality:

“The zipline operator said 'Allahu Akbar' three times, and then the firing started. He was a local Kashmiri and… https://t.co/ADUfYUFZSG pic.twitter.com/icI6o1AmDo

— Ashwini Shrivastava (@AshwiniSahaya) April 28, 2025

Diplomatic Fallout

The assault triggered a sharp escalation in hostilities between India and Pakistan. In retaliation, India conducted military drills, missile tests, and suspended a critical water treaty. Meanwhile, Pakistan denied any involvement, retaliated by closing its airspace to Indian flights, and mobilized its military forces.

“We have reinforced our forces because (an incursion) is something which is imminent now. In that situation some strategic decisions have to be taken, so those decisions have been taken,” said Pakistani Defense Minister Khawaja Muhammad Asif.

International bodies, including the UN, have vocally condemned the attack, urging both India and Pakistan to practice restraint to avoid further escalation. The United States expressed its solidarity with India, as underscored by US Secretary of State Marco Rubio, highlighting global concern over stability in the region.

#UPDATE : The zip line operator, whose actions during the Pahalgam terror attack were captured in a viral video has been picked up for questioning by the National Investigation Agency (NIA). The development came just minutes after survivor Rishi Bhatt (tourist) in an interview… https://t.co/irIcy1QRW0

— The New Indian (@TheNewIndian_in) April 28, 2025

Efforts to Assist Victims and Their Families

The aftermath of the attack left many families devastated, including that of Bharath Bhushan from Karnataka, who was traveling with his family when he was killed. Efforts to assist affected families are underway, led by Karnataka authorities and local representatives, including the dispatch of special government teams to assist on-the-ground operations.

“Just now spoke with Mrs. Sujata, a resident of Mattikere, Bengaluru. Her husband Sri Bharat Bhushan was shot dead earlier today in the terror attack. She and her 3-year-old son have survived,” said Tejasvi Surya, a member of parliament for the Bangalore South constituency.

Another victim of the attack included Manjunath Rao from Shivamogga. In a bid to provide support, local and international leaders have stepped in, working closely with Indian officials to dispatch aid swiftly and effectively. Chief Minister Siddaramaiah himself voiced strong condemnation of the attack and committed his administration to facilitate all necessary support to the victims’ families.