Four tourism projects likely to get rolling
In a bid to boost tourism in the newly formed-district of Murree, the tourism department has initiated work on four significant development projects in the current fiscal year with a combined budget of Rs243.8 million.
One of these projects, it said, would transform Bansara Gali, a scenic tourist centre 12 kilometres from Murree, into a captivating destination. The development includes the creation of a parking lot, a tourist area, zip line, beverages bar and food court as well as areas for climbing, archery, and bonfire. This project is budgeted at Rs60 million.
Additionally, the restoration of the forest department's rest house in Charhan, which was severely damaged during the 2005 earthquake, is on the agenda. The plans include making it accessible to visitors once again. Furthermore, a terminal would be constructed at the Kashmir airlift point.
Notably, the Department of Tourism Development is focusing on upgrading Patriata, Murree's primary tourist hub for travellers from Rawalpindi and Islamabad.
To ensure the safety of tourists, dedicated tourism security personnel will be stationed at key locations, including Murree GPO Chowk, Mall Road, Kashmir Point, and Pindi Point.
Published in The Express Tribune, September 29th, 2023.