LAHORE: In the light of the federal government directions, the Punjab government has decided to develop new tourist destinations under public-private partnership to promote tourism and provide more recreational facilities to the people across the province.

The decision was taken at a meeting chaired by Chief Minister’s Advisor on Tourism Asif Mehmood and Chief Secretary Jawwad Rafique Malik at the Civil Secretariat on Friday.

The meeting reviewed the implementation of decisions regarding the promotion of tourism and adaptive reuse of official rest houses.

Speaking at the meeting, Asif Mehmood said that promotion of tourism and development of tourist sites are among the priorities of the government. “In line with the vision of the prime minister, the Punjab government is taking practical steps for the progress of the tourism sector.”

The chief secretary said that the promotion of tourism would not only boost economic activities but also create employment opportunities for locals. He directed the Secretary Tourism to complete the work of identifying new potential tourist destinations in the province as soon as possible and prepare a comprehensive plan for the development of the tourism sector along with a timeline.

He also issued instructions regarding removal of encroachments, better cleanliness and provision of facilities at the existing tourist sites.

The Tourism Secretary informed the meeting that the Tourism Development Corporation of Punjab (TDCP) has initiated the process of leasing out 13 of its properties.

The Planning and Development Secretary briefed the participants on the implementation of the Punjab Tourism for Economic Growth project being executed in the province with the assistance of the World Bank.

Published in Dawn, August 22nd, 2020