Srinagar: In one of the deadliest terror attacks in recent times, 26 persons have succumbed to injuries in the Pahalgam terror strike, official sources in the security grid confirmed to news agency JKNS late Tuesday night.
“26 people have succumbed to injuries in the terror attack,” official sources said, without sharing further details regarding the identities of the victims or circumstances of the assault.
The attack, which targeted a group of tourists in the Baisaran area of Pahalgam, Anantnag district, has sent shockwaves across the country. Earlier, multiple injuries and casualties were reported, but the final toll appears to be significantly higher than initially feared.
Union Home Minister Amit Shah, who reached Srinagar this evening, is scheduled to visit the attack site on Wednesday. He is accompanied by Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha and other top officials. Shah chaired a high-level security meeting at Raj Bhawan late Monday to assess the situation and review immediate responses.
Officials said the Home Minister will also meet injured persons and eyewitnesses undergoing treatment in Srinagar hospitals.
Security has been massively heightened across Kashmir Valley in the wake of the attack, with intensified patrolling, increased surveillance, and checkpoints at key locations. Forces have also launched a massive manhunt in Pahalgam and surrounding areas to trace the attackers.
More details are expected as authorities complete formal identification and investigation. (JKNS)