Rishi Bhatt recounts narrow escape during Pahalgam terror attack

Rishi Bhatt, a tourist from Gujarat was vacationing with his wife and son at Baisaran meadow in Pahalgam when the deadly terror attack took place. During a zipline ride, Bhatt claimed the operator suddenly shouted “Allahu Akbar” three times, after which gunfire broke out targeting tourists. According to Bhatt, nine people has used the zipline before him without incident, which made him suspicious about the operator’s behavior.

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While sliding on the zipline, Bhatt heard gunfire and realized within seconds that a terrorist attack was underway. He described seeing 5-6 people getting shot. Acting swiftly, he detached himself from the zipline, took his wife and son, and ran for safety. They hid in a pit along with other tourists to avoid being seen.

Bhatt shared that men from two families ahead of them were questioned about their religion and then shot in front of his wife and son. He recalled the firing lasting for 8-10 minutes, followed by a brief pause and then another round of shooting where 4-5 more people were shot. Around 15-16 tourists were injured before Bhatt and his family reached the exit, where they noticed that the local crowd had already dispersed.

He expressed gratitude to the Indian Army, which arrived within 20-25 minutes and provided crucial cover, making the tourists feel secure.