MINGORA: The tourists and local residents of Kalam have demanded of the federal government to construct Bahrain-Kalam Road to facilitate people.

They showed satisfaction over the provincial government’s beautification project titled ‘Tourism Integrated Development Unit’ and said they were excited to see development schemes in the scenic Kalam valley.

“This is a great initiative to initiate development projects in Kalam, especially widening and blacktopping of the main road along with several link roads connecting Kalam with Gayhel, Boyun and Utror valleys,” said Ziaullah Khan, a tourist who visited Kalam with his friends.

Tourists said that main roads in Kalam were in dilapidated condition owing to which tourists and commuters faced problems. “We were shocked to see the worst condition of roads and other basic facilities in Kalam despite the fact that the valley is one of the most beautiful ones in the world that is visited by a large number of tourists every year,” said Iqbal Ahmad, a tourist from Lahore.

He said that it was pleasant to see development work in Kalam. He asked federal government to follow the model of provincial government and construct Bahrain-Kalam Road to facilitate tourists.

Pakistan Youth Organisation chairman Syed Sardar Badshah also appreciated government for initiating projects in Kalam. “Swat is paradise and Kalam is one of its jewels. Tourists want to visit Kalam but unfortunately road from Bahrain to Kalam is in bad shape,” he added.

Asad Ali, the engineer of Kalam beautification project, told Dawn that the Rs1,225 million beautification project included seven schemes including Kalam internal roads, link roads to sub valleys, rest areas, beautification of Kalam town, food streets, flower market, child playing areas and a cricket ground.

“We are working on the project without interruption. Despite weather constraints, we will try our best to complete the project within the timeframe and cost,” he said. Mr Ali showed satisfaction over the progress of contractors and said that they were doing their job according to the plan.

Published in Dawn, August 2nd, 2017