MANSEHRA: Adviser to the chief minister on tourism Zahid Chanzeb on Tuesday said the provincial government was according top priority to the development of the hospitality industry to generate revenue to meet its expenses.

“As our province is facing financial challenges, tourism is one of its major sectors to generate revenue for the people’s development,” he told a marathon meeting at the Circuit House here.

The meeting was attended by heads and representatives of the relevant departments, National Highway Authority, Kaghan Development Authority and Galiyat Development Authority.

The CM’s adviser directed both KDA and GDA chiefs to ensure that none of the applicants seeking no-objection certificates or acquisition of land for the construction of hotels and other commercial entities return disappointed.

“Kaghan Valley in Mansehra and Galies (Galiyat) in Abbottabad are paradise on earth and attract an unmatched number of visitors every year. I want more and more commercial activities happening there, so you should welcome investors,” he said.

Mr Chanzeb directed the district police officer to ensure the deployment of additional police force in the valley.

“I won’t tolerate the imposition of fine on tourists as they people come here to enjoy nature and our hospitality. We have to prove by words and actions that we welcome them,” he said.

The adviser said the tourism police, which were equipped with motorcycles, would assist the police in Kaghan, Galiyat and other tourist places in the province.

He directed heads of the health department and Rescue 1122 to ensure doctors and other staff members are present in health facilities and emergency stations on the way to Kaghan Valley 24/7 to serve tourists.

“We are going to set up the 1915 police helpline for visitors to tourist destinations in the summer. A proposal for the establishment of an FM radio station for the purpose is also in the works,” he said.

The deputy commissioner, district police officer, district health officer, tehsil municipal officer of Mansehra and Balakot, chiefs of the KDA and GDA, representatives of NHA, Rescue 1122, and communication and works department briefed the adviser about their “coordinated efforts” to provide foolproof security, hospitality and other services to visitors in Hazara division.

Published in Dawn, April 17th, 2024