Srinagar, Aug 16: Baisaran meadow in Pahalgam, popularly known as “mini-Switzerland,” is set to get a motorable road, giving tourists an option besides trekking or pony rides.
The foundation stone for the project was laid by MLA Pahalgam, Altaf Ahmad Wani (Kaloo). The road will connect Baisaran with the Circuit Road and cover more than 4 km.
It will cost Rs 6.09 crore and be constructed by the PWD Roads and Buildings Division, Pahalgam, under NABARD. The work is expected to take 2 to 3 years, officials said. Visitors currently trek about 3.5 km over rugged terrain or hire ponies to reach the meadow.
The destination has remained closed since the April 22, 2025, attack that killed 25 tourists and pony operator Syed Adil Shah, who was killed while trying to save visitors. Kaloo said the decision to build the road was taken after the attack.
“The attack on tourists was a national tragedy that left a stain on us, particularly for me as the local MLA,” he said. “Had there been connectivity, probably the attack wouldn’t have taken place.” He said security forces also faced difficulties reaching the site.
The lack of road access hampered evacuation after the attack. The injured and deceased were carried down on horseback, ATVs and shoulders before being taken to the Pahalgam health facility. “Several lives were lost due to delayed medical attention,” an official said.
Officials said the road would improve access and help security forces secure the destination. Kaloo assured pony operators that the project would not affect their livelihood.
“The trek would remain, and pony operators can continue their services once the road is completed,” he said. “Tourists would have the option of availing pony services.”
He said Baisaran would be another addition to Pahalgam’s sightseeing destinations after Aru Valley, Betaab Valley, and Chandanwari. The project would also create opportunities for local cab operators, Kaloo said. “This will also ensure winter connectivity to Baisaran,” he said.
A cable car from the Circuit Road to Baisaran is also in the pipeline, Kaloo said. “Its survey has already been carried.” “I am thankful to our Chief Minister Omar Abdullah for facilitating this project, and I gave it the utmost priority,” Kaloo said.
He also paid tribute to those killed in the April 22 attack.
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