ISLAMABAD: The government’s decision to declare Islamabad a ‘tourist city’ will promote the federal capital’s positive image on a global level.

This was said by the Chairman of the Clean and Green Islamabad Movement, Ahsan Bakhtawari, on Wednesday during a meeting. According to a statement, Ahsan Bakhtawari said that Islamabad is already considered one of the most attractive capitals in the world due to its natural beauty, clean environment and well-organised urban system.

“This decision by the government is a practical step towards promoting tourism, preserving cultural heritage and achieving sustainable development,” he said.

Offering his full cooperation to the Capital Development Authority (CDA) Chairman, he emphasised the need to protect and make areas like the Margalla Hills, trails and parks more tourist-friendly. He suggested launching awareness campaigns for cleanliness and waste management in these areas.

He also proposed improvements in tourism infrastructure, including modern information centres, clear signboards, navigation mobile apps, washroom facilities and the availability of basic amenities.

He recommended organising special events and festivals at cultural and historical sites such as Shakarparian, Lok Virsa, Faisal Mosque and Rawal Lake to attract both local and international tourists. To ensure a clean and healthy environment, he called for the announcement of cleanliness drives, tree plantations, and plastic-free zones at tourist spots under the “Clean and Green” campaign.

Mr Bakhtawari also emphasised involving local communities in tourism activities to create employment opportunities and make the dream of sustainable development a reality.

Ahsan Bakhtawari assured that the Clean and Green Islamabad Movement, along with the business community of Islamabad, was ready to fully cooperate with the government and district administration and would play every possible role in transforming Islamabad into a model tourist city.

Published in Dawn, May 22nd, 2025