KARACHI:
Our beloved homeland is a wonderland of attractions, but tourism is the icing on the cake. Visitors from far and wide flock to our stunning cities, and we have heard rave reviews from those who have experienced them firsthand. Tour operators are cashing in on this trend, showcasing a slice of heaven in the northern areas and advertising far and wide to catch the eye of potential tourists.
Many families are also getting a chance to witness the beauty of the region through these tours. However, there is a fly in the ointment — tourists often complain about subpar facilities, including clean water, hot water, proper food, transport and hotel issues. When they voice their concerns, they are often given the cold shoulder, with companies saying they cannot do anything about it at this time in the middle of tour but it will be resolved next time. It is a case of taking their money and running, with hefty fees charged even for minor children, but delivering zilch in terms of amenities.
In Pakistan, there is a lack of checks and balances, and no clear platform for complaints beyond venting on social media. We need to take the crack to the whip and establish an online complaint cell to address grievances and take swift action so that grievances could be addressed immediately and properly. There should be rules and regulations wherein there should be a condition of initiation of a written agreement between the parties regarding provision of basic necessary facilities to tourists. In case of denial or non-compliance of the same during the course of tour, there must be penal conditions and imposition of fine against those who don’t provide necessary facilities to tourists/guests during the tour. The copy of the written agreement should be handed to the local/ concerned administration for information and compliance of such agreement by either party. By doing so, the government can turn over a new leaf and boost tourism, which would be a shot in the arm for the economy and a boon for locals.
Riaz Ali Panhwar
Hyderabad
