Moot on mountain tourism

Four-day event features tech innovations, photography contest

ISLAMABAD:

International Mountain Day 2024 was commemorated with a one-day conference on Sustainable Mountain Tourism, photographic competition and tourism start-ups exhibition at PNCA Islamabad.

The event was hosted by Pakistan Tourism Development Corporation (PTDC) in collaboration with Alpine Club of Pakistan, World Bank Group, Hashoo Group, Riphah International University, STFP, National Incubation Centers (NICs), COTHM, PNCA and provincial tourism departments, Punjab Tourism for Economic Development Project and Ignite Technology Fund.

It was aligned with the year's theme, "Mountain Solutions for a Sustainable Future: Innovation, Adaptation, and Youth". It focused on innovative strategies and sustainable practices to safeguard mountain ecosystems while empowering youth. A large number of people from different walks of life, including mountaineers, trekkers, adventure lovers, social activists, conservationists, tourism industry professionals, students and the media attended.

The event began with a keynote address by PTDC Managing Director, Aftabur Rehman Rana, who emphasised the importance of innovative and sustainable tourism practices in mountain regions. He stated, "Mountains are not just magnificent landscapes but lifelines for millions of people. It is imperative to find innovative solutions to protect these treasures and empower communities who are dependent on them." He also stressed the promotion of sustainable and responsible tourism to safeguard the natural environment and mountain ecosystems.

The conference featured four engaging panel discussions, bringing together experts and stakeholders to address key aspects of mountain tourism, conservation and innovation.

The 4th International Conference on Adventure and Sports Tourism in Mountain Areas of Pakistan, focused on "Mountain Sports Tourism: Challenges and Opportunities." Moderated by Riphah International University Director Mian Athar Jamil, the panel featured renowned experts, including former Minister for Tourism and Minister for Planning & Development Gilgit-Baltistan; Raja Nasir, Pakistan Hang Gliding & Paragliding Association President, Syed Sajjad Shah; AJK Winter Sports Federation President Nisar Ahmed Shaiq; and former Joint Secretary of Tourism Zafarullah Siddiqui. The panellists discussed the untapped potential of adventure sports in mountain areas and strategies to overcome challenges in infrastructure and accessibility.