EVERY year ‘Tourism Day’ is observed in September all over the world. No doubt, Pakistan is blessed with scenic mountainous terrains, which are assets for Pakistan. The major stakeholder is the Pakistan Tourism Development Corporation (PTDC).

Tourism not only attracts tourists but is also a source of earning foreign exchange. The PTDC must focus on renovating the existing motels and hotels and build new ones where these do not exist.

The chief minister of each province is requested to shoulder this responsibility and extend maximum assistance to the PTDC so that tourists can avail themselves of world-class facilities. Tourists’ apprehensions on security matters, both in motels and hotels and during visits to various sites, must be ensured. Adequate and cheap transport in hilly terrains must be managed. The PTDC must also ensure that safe and hygienic food is provided to tourists.

The PTDC should also provide guides who know English well. Pakistan’s earnings from tourism comes to $350m which is a pittance compared to what other countries earn.

Engr. Riaz Akbar

Wah Cantt

Published in Dawn, October 1st, 2016