Festival attracts tourists back to heaven on earth

The organisers hope the event will help efforts to lure reluctant tourists

SWAT: The three years of tumult in Swat brought untold miseries to its innocent citizens, including huge psychological stress. The ruthless insurgency launched by the militants not only demolished its infrastructure but also left indelible marks on its social, economic and psychological life.

Because of its dazzling beauty, gushing streams and snow-capped mountains, tourists came here from afar to enjoy the pleasant weather and stunning splendour. Unsurprisingly, tourism was the backbone of the Valley’s economy. But during the days of mayhem, the tourism industry suffered a paralysis, which affected thousands of people.

After the successful army operation, life limped back to normal. But people across the country took the claims of success against the loyalists of ‘Mullah Radio’ with a pinch of salt. They hesitated to visit the tourist spot for fear of militant attacks.

It is in this context that an NGO in collaboration with the Pakistan Army announced the holding of the ‘Swat Amn Festival’ from June 29 to July 18 in Mingora and Kalam.

Contrary to popular perception, the festival proved a huge success, beating people’s expectations. It is not only providing opportunity to the local people to unwind and relax but also attracting a great number of people from across the country.

Mrs Bushra Rahman from Lahore told to The Express Tribune during the festival, “We are enjoying the beauty of Swat, the pleasant weather and the nice demeanour of the Swati people.” She added: “People must come…everything is perfect here…don’t get scared. The festival at night is spectacular.”

Amjad, an activist of Mingora, enthused: “I feel fantastic. I want to forget the past when fear ruled everywhere in the valley. I am thankful to God for restoring peace to our peaceful land.”

As this correspondent asked a teenager how he felt the difference between the past and present, his eyes welled up. “Please don’t remind me of the past. I daily come here to erase the memory of those ‘animals’ who wanted to crush us.”

Regarding the festival he said innocently, “I love to watch the circus show. I wish it could stay here forever.”

The ‘Swat Aman Festival’ is a ray of hope in the hearts of local people and created a sense of confidence among the tourists. The organisers hope the event will give impetus to the effort to lure the tourists back to this heaven on earth. They are considering extending the duration of the festival.

Published in The Express Tribune, July 8^th, 2010.