‘Partnerships can boost tourism industry’

World Tourism Day celebrations held at Khanpur Dam

PESHAWAR:

With the revival of the tourism industry in the province is the top priority of the incumbent provincial government to not only generate greater revenue but to also create jobs for local communities, public-private partnerships can play a key role in boosting this sector.

This was stated by Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa Culture and Tourism Authority (K-PCTA) Secretary Abid Majeed on Sunday as he kicked off an event on the banks of the Khanpur Dam to mark the World Tourism Day.

He said several measures have been taken to enhance tourism in the province. “Tourism activities at new tourist resorts through the public-private partnership will help boost the industry and generate much-needed revenue for local communities at the district level,” the secretary said, adding that it will also advance the inclusion and highlight the unique role tourism that can play in preserving and promoting natural and cultural heritage and curbing urban migration.

He said that awareness drives through posters, pamphlets and signboards about tourism activities in the 10 districts of the province has been launched to facilitate visitors in accessing tourist attractions without any trouble.

Around 200 families were taken to Khanpur Dam, where they enjoyed several tourism activities during the day-long trip.

The visitors experienced adventure tourism and participated in a thrilling boating trip and rafting in the lake. Other attractions included zip-lining, air-gun shooting, swimming, wake tubing, jet ski riding and traditional music and foods were also part of the joyful excursion.

The Galiyat Development Authority (GDA) had also organised a Rang-de-Galiyat event to kick-start tourism activities in Hazara Division. The festival showcased paintings, bonfire, live music, and traditional cuisines.

 

Published in The Express Tribune, Septe0mber 28^th, 2020.