Lagatar24 Desk
Srinagar: When terror erupted at Pahalgam’s Baisaran meadow on April 22, it wasn’t just security forces who responded – it was ordinary ponywallahs and locals who rushed to help, risking their own lives to save terrified tourists.
Sajjad Ahmed Bhatt: Carrying Hope On His Back
Among the heroes was Sajjad Ahmed Bhatt, whose video of carrying an injured tourist boy on his back went viral. Despite personal tragedy in his own family, Sajjad rushed downhill for kilometres across rocky paths, ferrying the injured to safety.
“It was a scary sight. Children and women were screaming. Dead bodies were everywhere. Yet, for us, the tourists are family. Rescuing them was our responsibility,” he said with tears in his eyes, adding they will observe the day as a ‘black day’ every year.
Raees Ahmed: A Leader Amid Chaos
Raees Ahmed, the president of the Ponywallah Association, was among the first to reach Baisaran after tourists sent distress signals. “When we reached, we saw bodies strewn across the valley. It felt like my last day,” he said, recalling how he helped a woman crying for her injured husband.
Remembering Syed Adil Hussain Shah
Syed Adil Hussain Shah, a 28-year-old pony guide, made the ultimate sacrifice trying to disarm a terrorist. “If the fences weren’t there, many more Adils would have jumped into the valley to save tourists,” remembered Raees Ahmed.
Hundreds Of Unsung Heroes
Abdul Majeed, another ponywallah, said, “There was a message in our WhatsApp group at 3 pm about the attack. Hundreds of us rushed to save the injured. Sajjad went viral, but there were hundreds of Sajjads risking their lives.”
Hospitality Stronger Than Fear
Nissar Ahmed Bhatt spoke about how locals carried the wounded for kilometres without any means of transport. “We stand with every Indian tourist. Come see our hospitality; don’t let terrorists create a rift between us,” he appealed.
An environmental activist from Pahalgam echoed similar sentiments: “This land belongs to both Allah and Shiva. We live by humanity, not hatred.”
A Restaurant Owner’s Grief
Narendra Singh, a restaurant owner, is still battling mental trauma from that day. “We serve tourists like gods. Religion doesn’t matter here. We are united,” he said.
Pahalgam’s Message To Tourists
Raees Ahmed and Sajjad Bhatt sent out a united appeal to tourists across India: “Do not cancel your trips. Pahalgam stands with you. We are waiting to welcome you with open arms.”
In their collective grief, anger, and defiance, the people of Pahalgam sent a powerful message to the terrorists: “Not in my name. You are murderers.”
