If the provincial government improves the security situation, the province will surely generate more revenue
PESHAWAR: The tourism department of Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa (K-P), in collaboration with the environmental department, has announced a programme at tourist destinations under the theme “Camping Paradise”. According to the first stage of the programme, temporary camping sites will be established in Swat, Bash Gram, Chitral, Kamrat, Upper Dir, Kohistan and Kaghan Valley. To keep the environment clean and provide information to arriving tourists, information boards will be set up. Building permanent camping structures will not be allowed at the sites and there will also be a ban on cutting trees. In case of any natural calamity like earthquakes or floods, the tourism department will provide every possible aid to tourists.
These measures are highly welcome. The provincial government should also take advantage of the four beautiful seasons that grace the province, which can help generate millions in revenue. The government should consider making arrangements for winter sports like skiing. Initiating the Camping Paradise programme for tourists indicates that at present there is a lack of amenities for tourists. Building hotels, restaurants and rest houses should also be an important component of the programme. The geographical area of Maldives and Nepal are not more than that of K-P, but these countries generate more revenue from tourism than the province. The tourism industry in the above-mentioned countries is greatly supporting their economies. It is our bad luck that no government in the past seriously paid attention to such a lucrative industry. In addition, the constant state of agitation between the provincial and federal governments hasn’t helped either.
After the 18th Amendment, the authority of using water resources has been given to the provinces. K-P can generate thousands of megawatts by building small dams. Using the minerals found in the province, K-P’s economy can be stabilised in a few years. Through the development of tourist destinations, K-P can generate employment opportunities for its people. Governments in the past have ignored these sectors. We expect that instead of relying on others for financial assistance, the provincial government will come up with a complete plan for developing its own resources. More tourists are now visiting the Galiyat, Kaghan and Swat. If the provincial government improves the security situation, the province will surely generate more revenue. Moreover, encouraging and promoting cultural activities at the provincial level will also increase tourism.
Muhammad Adil
Published in The Express Tribune, May 31st, 2016.
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