Coastal tourism of Balochistan

Balochistan has been blessed with extraordinary beauty. It is among the most captivating and popular tourist spots in Pakistan. Stretching across 347,190 sq-km, Balochistan is known for its varied topography which features stunning mountain ranges, enthralling deserts, alluring beaches, serene coastal region, waterfalls and archeological sites. Afghan writer Dost Muhammad Dost says that etymologically, Baloch is made of two Sanskrit words ‘Bal’ and ‘Och’ meaning high and magnificent. Balochistan is a tourists paradise, having a wealth of stunning locations. When it comes to Balochistan’s stunning natural surroundings, it experiences the coldest temperature in some locations, such as Ziarat Valley, and the highest temperature in the deserts of Kharan and Chaghai.

With a 760 km long coastline and important ports like Gwadar, Pasni, Jiwani and Somiani, Balochistan has a lot of potential to draw both local and foreign tourists. One of the most fertile marine ecosystems in the world is found in this region, which is home to 60 fish species, 10 varieties of prawns and rare sightings of the Arabian Humpback whale. Moreover, Kund Malir Beach, which is located in Hingol National Park, is ranked among Asia’s top 50 beaches. This beach is a well-known jewel among Pakistan’s many beaches, adding to the area’s alluring coastal attractiveness and natural beauty. Furthermore, Astola Island is a small, deserted island in the Arabian Sea that is also known as the Island of the Seven Hills. This island is visited by tourists who go fishing, beach camping and deep sea diving. The bottom is visible down to a depth of around twenty feet because the water is so pure. The view from the island is breathtaking sunsets, soaring birds, brilliant sunshine and a cool, soft breeze. Besides, a prominent Hindu temple in the centre of Hingol National Park is called Mata Hinglaj or Nani Mandir. Over 250,000 pilgrims participate in the Hinglaj Yatra, an annual pilgrimage organised in April. In the spring, pilgrims travel to the temple from all around Pakistan and even India. This has the potential to become one of Balochistan’s most lucrative tourist destinations with careful upkeep and strategic planning. Additionally, the province takes great pleasure in the 9,000-year-old Mehrgarh Heritage Site. Offers important insights into the early human civilisation in the area, it is one of the most ancient archaeological sites in the world. Travelers from other countries are frequently drawn to Mehrgarh in an attempt to solve its ancient past’s mysteries. But Mehrgarh must also be adequately conserved and developed into a museum that welcomes visitors from all over the world.

Pakistan’s coastline can be developed by following the example of the UAE, Sri Lanka or any other coastal nation that has prioritised the development of tourism resorts, fishing, seaside cruises, scuba diving and showcasing the local cultures. The prevailing political environment in view of the infrastructural projects being built as part of CPEC will promote connectivity. The inter-regional connectivity apart from socio-economic development of Balochistan will also open up prospects of travel and tourism. To encourage tourism in the area, Pakistan must make investments in the growth of the nearby coastal towns. The local way of life in coastal settlements can serve as a powerful draw for travelers to this region of nation. Additionally, a concrete tourism infrastructure is required to address issues related to Pakistani coastal tourism such as security, pollution along the coast, management of solid waste, scarcity of freshwater and preservation of marine life. Sustainable development is also necessary to safeguard the environment and coastal ecosystem, as coral reefs are home to priceless flora and fauna. To prevent sea blindness in Pakistan, a robust plan is required. Establishing a coastal authority in Pakistan can take the lead by offering a forum for study and tackling issues pertaining to Pakistan’s coastal tourism industry.

Published in The Express Tribune, February 24^th, 2024.

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