Crackdown on illegal boating impacts tourism

Inspections reveal commercial ops compromise water quality at Khanpur Dam

HARIPUR:

Efforts to clamp down on illegal boating at Khanpur Dam have reignited concerns over the impact on tourism.

The executive engineer of the Khanpur Dam project issued a notice on January 14, 2025, instructing all boat and jetty owners to vacate the lake and adjacent Water and Power Development Authority (Wapda) land immediately.

The notice highlighted that multiple individuals and clubs are operating illegal boating services in violation of an environmental magistrate's decision from May 13, 2010.

That ruling allowed limited, environmentally friendly boating to benefit local residents.

However, recent inspections revealed that these activities have expanded into commercial operations, resulting in environmental degradation and compromised water quality.

Sources emphasised the critical importance of Khanpur Dam, which serves as a vital source of clean drinking water for Islamabad and Rawalpindi.

The notice flagged pollution caused by motorised boats as a direct threat to public health and the environment.

Boat and jetty owners have been given a three-day ultimatum to halt their activities and remove illegal structures.

Failure to comply will lead to legal action, with removal costs charged to violators.

Copies of the notice have been sent to the Wapda DG, district administration and local police to ensure enforcement.

Officials have already notified illegal jetty operators to cease water sports activities and remove all installations within the stipulated timeframe.

However, it remains unclear whether the directive applies only to 14-15 newly constructed jetties among the 45 existing boat houses or extends to all jetties, including those run by hotels, motels, and guesthouses.

The ambiguity raised questions about whether the crackdown will resolve the longstanding dispute between the tehsil municipal administration (TMA) and Khanpur Dam authorities or will the operation will target all boat houses.

In the meantime, tourists are likely to face disruptions, casting a shadow over the lake's appeal as a recreational destination.

The ongoing crackdown has sparked concerns among local businesses that rely on tourism at Khanpur Dam.

Many boat owners and operators argue that the restrictions will lead to a significant loss of income, while also impacting the livelihoods of those involved in related services such as hospitality and local guides.