FAISALABAD, Aug 9: District Nazims and DCOs have been directed to identify feasible sites for developing new resorts for the promotion of tourism, generation of income and provision of employment opportunities in the province.

This was stated by Tourism and Resort Development Department secretary Hassan Nawaz Tarar in a directive addressed to all the district Nazims and DCOs in the province. He pointed out that the Punjab province was rich in culture and had much to offer to tourists from home and abroad. However, he regretted, that the potential had not been realized.

He said the Punjab chief minister, recognizing the importance and potential of tourism, had given priority to the projects designed to boost tourism industry in the province as a means of generating income and employment opportunities.

Particular emphasis, he said, had been laid on the development of tourist resorts, promotion of hotel chains, entertainment industry, development of theme parks, and general promotion of tourism.

For this purpose, he asked the district Nazims and DCOs to conduct surveys in their respective areas in collaboration with the Tourism Development Corporation of Pakistan (TDCP).

Resorts may be identified keeping in view the elements of scenic beauty, cultural and historical heritage and religious importance, he stressed. They had also been asked to organize and promote such cultural activities as may serve as attraction for tourists.

The Tourism secretary further directed the officials concerned to furnish suggestions regarding maintenance and protection of resorts and facilities already in existence.

One such example would be a project for preservation and beautification of Kallar Kahar Lake, now jointly being looked after by the TDCP and the Chakwal district government. The Tourism department has also invited proposals and suggestions for feasible projects so that the same could be implemented in the planned tourism programme.