SWAT: The government on Wednesday directed the project consultants to submit an updated and comprehensive proposal regarding feasibility of the proposed ski resort in the Boyun Valley near Kalam, an ambitious plan poised to transform the region into a premier international winter sports destination.

The development came during a high-level meeting chaired by Dr Abdul Samad, secretary culture, tourism, archaeology, and museums department.

The meeting reviewed initial proposals for the new resort.

Dr Samad said the proposals on feasibility would be first be shared with the secretary forest department for review before being presented to the provincial cabinet for final discussion and approval.

Proposed master plan designates 1,400 acres for skiing slopes and 1,500 for supporting infrastructure

He informed the participants that the site encompassed approximately 2,900 acres of land, much of it bordered by lush, dense forest.

The government plans to execute the project to provide modern skiing facilities, complementing the existing resort at Malam Jabba.

“The vision of Chief Minister Ali Amin Gandapur is to promote tourism in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa along modern lines,” Dr Samad said.

“This project represents a significant opportunity to provide new recreational facilities for our people and to cultivate a new generation of professional ski athletes for Pakistan.”

The proposed master plan designates 1,400 acres for skiing slopes and a further 1,500 acres for the development of supporting infrastructure, including hotels, restaurants, and other recreational amenities.

Dr Samad underscored the government’s commitment to environmental preservation, issuing a clear directive that “not a single tree from the existing forest will be cut for this project.”

A project consultant, Hamza Tabish Raza confirmed that the specific area identified for the ski slopes is largely clear of trees, though a small village with basic hut structures is present.

He proposed relocating the residents to a suitable alternative location.

Addressing critical safety protocols, Tabish Raza stressed the necessity of installing a comprehensive early warning system to monitor weather conditions and manage potential natural hazards like heavy rainfall and flash floods.

The meeting also discussed essential infrastructure requirements, including road access, electricity, and water supply.

Mr Alexander Steinlechner, also a project consultant, joined the meeting from Austria through video link.

“The international skiing community will welcome this project enthusiastically. The establishment of a new skiing facility in Pakistan’s beautiful north will certainly attract skiers from around the world,” he remarked.

Published in Dawn, August 28th, 2025