Srinagar, May 16 (IANS) A tourist couple from Gujarat was killed, and two others were injured on Saturday in a road accident in J&K’s Pahalgam tourist destination.

Officials said the road accident took place today when a taxi carrying tourists skidded off the road and dropped into a deep gorge while travelling to Pahalgam.

Two tourists were killed, and two others were injured. The two tourists killed in this road accident have been identified as Bawin Bhavsar, son of Mahesh Bhavsar, who was brought dead to Sub-District Hospital Pahalgam and his wife Awni Bhavsar, who succumbed to injuries after sustaining severe injuries.

The injured tourists have been identified as Naina Ben, wife of Ashok Bhai, and Ashok Bhai, whose parentage could not be immediately confirmed. Both are residents of Gujarat and are undergoing treatment before being referred for advanced medical care.

Meanwhile, the driver of the vehicle also sustained injuries in the accident and has been referred to the Government Medical College (GMC), Anantnag, for treatment. Police have taken cognisance of the incident.

Kashmir’s tourism is experiencing a significant revival in 2026, with over 4.23 lakh tourists visiting the Valley in the first four months alone, driven by improved infrastructure, increased flight connectivity, and robust security measures like new QR code verifications for service providers.

Major resorts like Gulmarg and Pahalgam are seeing high occupancy, supported by emerging destinations in the Gurez and Tosamaidan.

So far this year, the valley recorded over 4.23 lakh tourists, including over 7,500 foreign visitors, indicating strong industry performance, especially in Gulmarg and Pahalgam.

Authorities introduced a QR code system for verifying hotels, taxi drivers, and pony handlers to increase tourist security.

Beyond traditional spots, tourists are exploring newer areas like Gurez and Daksum, expanding the economic benefits of tourism.

The 2026-27 Budget introduced initiatives focused on developing mountain trails and heritage sites, supported by better flight and road connectivity.

The Tulip Garden hosted over 2.25 lakh visitors, acting as a crucial “confidence-builder” for the start of the season.

Winter tourism was sustained by events like the Khelo India Winter Games and new adventure sports such as ice climbing.

–IANS

sq/dan