Batakundi: a tale of rapid urbanisation

The once-sleepy village is now a bustling hub of commercial activities

BALAKOT:

Over the past two decades, Batakundi, a once serene village situated 15 kilometres from Naran, has undergone a remarkable transformation into a bustling commercial hub. In its earlier days, Batakundi was primarily an agrarian village adorned with lush green fields, where locals engaged in summer crop cultivation. The paradigm shift occurred as tourism gained prominence in the Kaghan Valley, gradually propelling Batakundi from a village into a thriving urban centre.

Presently, Batakundi boasts impressive hotels, complemented by a range of amenities. The culinary offerings in Batakundi are diverse, featuring not only a variety of Pakistani dishes but also Chinese cuisine, catering to the tastes of both tourists and locals.

Renowned for its accessibility to paths leading to destinations such as Lala Zar and other pastures, Batakundi stands as the second most sought-after destination for tourists en route to Babu Sir Top and Gilgit-Baltistan.

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Tourists are drawn to the area not only for its scenic allure but also for its top-notch accommodations and comprehensive facilities. The region has gained fame for its fertile land, yielding crops like peas and potatoes, particularly the coveted red potatoes. Batakundi's produce, known for its exceptional taste, finds its way to vegetable markets nationwide.

The transformation of the scenic commercial hub over two decades has not only generated employment opportunities for locals but has also attracted individuals from the hotel industry across the country.

However, the onset of winter, marked by heavy snowfall, closes roads to Batakundi for seven months. Consequently, the business community and residents temporarily relocate to cities, patiently awaiting the return of the tourist season. Once the weather permits, they return to the area, resuming their business activities, creating a cyclic pattern of migration and prosperity in this evolving tourist destination.

Published in The Express Tribune, December 25^th, 2023