Karnataka sets up helpline for tourists stranded in Kashmir after terror attack

The Karnataka Tourism Department issued a release on April 23 urging tour operators and travel agents to share details of tourists from the State currently in Kashmir.

Following the deadly terror attack in the Pahalgam region of Jammu and Kashmir, in which two tourists from Karnataka lost their lives, the State Government has set up a dedicated helpline to assist stranded tourists and their families.

The deceased have been identified as Manjunath Rao from Shivamogga and Bharat Bhushan from Mathikere, Bengaluru. According to a government statement, Mr. Bhushan’s body will be flown out of Kashmir by 3 p.m. on April 23 while Mr Rao’s mortal remains will depart by 6 p.m.

The Karnataka Tourism Department issued a release on April 23 urging tour operators and travel agents to share details of tourists from the State currently in Kashmir. Relatives and friends can contact the department through the following helpline numbers:

On April 22 evening, Chief Minister Siddaramaiah convened an emergency meeting with senior officials to assess the situation. A team led by Labour Minister Santosh Lad has been dispatched to Srinagar to coordinate relief efforts and offer support to the families of victims.

Minister Santosh Lad confirmed that bodies of the deceased have been brought to Srinagar. He visited Muskaan Hotel, where many tourists from Karnataka are staying, to reassure them and attend to their needs.