Plastic waste tarnishes Patriata's scenic charm

While global efforts to combat environmental pollution intensify, the picturesque tourist destination of Patriata in Murree is experiencing increasing environmental degradation due to the rampant use of plastic shopping bags and general littering.

The provincial "Clean Punjab" campaign has gained widespread public support, yet the condition of the Patriata Chairlift and Public Park, managed by the Tourism Development Corporation of Punjab (TDCP), continues to deteriorate.

Tourists and residents alike have voiced disappointment over the unsanitary environment. A citizen, Zahid Khan, said that the TDCP, despite receiving a sizable budget and earning millions in ticket sales, has failed to maintain basic cleanliness standards, causing significant inconvenience for visitors. Another citizen said that the accumulation of garbage and plastic waste has reportedly led to skin and respiratory issues among locals.

The TDCP director told The Express Tribune that cleanliness and courteous behaviour are key to the success of any tourist destination.