Power struggle threatens tourism at Khanpur Dam

Sources attribute dwindling numbers to poor facilities, authority disputes

HARIPUR:

The growing power struggle among the stakeholders has put tourism activities at stake at the famous Khanpur Dam. The trend of tourists visiting the tourist attraction is diminishing because of inadequate and haphazard facilities, putting the employment of locals at risk.

Khanpur Dam is an extremely attractive location for regional tourism and the employment of local people. However, in recent times, provincial and national departments have been fighting for their influence and control, sidelining public interests and tourism.

Reports indicate that the Water and Power Development Authority (Wapda) Xen at Khanpur Dam has written letters to various institutions, asserting their rights to the dam and stating that no other organisation is authorised to take over this area. All tax collections at the dam are illegal, the officer states in his letters.

However, the Tehsil Municipal Administration Khanpur has rejected Wapda's authority and has argued its jurisdiction over the dam through a temporary court stay.

The collection of taxes from jetty owners, car parking, and water sports is ongoing but unfortunately, there has been no significant work done to improve facilities for tourists.

The Haripur Deputy Commissioner has imposed a ban on new boats and jetties via notification, which no one is willing to comply with. As a result, conflicts at the dam are growing, clearly affecting tourism, regional image and employment of locals.

The stakeholders associated with the dam have formed a new association by deactivating the boat association earlier formed by the jetty owners, leading to evident disagreements.

Political interference is also seen in worsening the dam's issues. There is unrest everywhere, but no one is willing to understand the situation. If these issues persist, a major incident could occur.

Sources say using force cannot resolve matters as this reality must be recognised by the institutions of Tehsil Khanpur and all stakeholders.

Wapda and TMA need to sign a memorandum of understanding (MoU) to collaboratively define their areas of authority to protect the regional image and the livelihoods of hundreds of local families associated with tourism, they add.