Ikram Sadiqui
MINGORA: The winter season has come back with intensity to Kalam Valley, drawing an exceptionally large crowd of visitors this week.
The surge of tourists has entirely occupied the Kalam bazaar while hotels are noting 70% guest capacity. The significant rise, in cars has additionally intensified traffic congestion on the roads approaching the central market.
Coasters and buses used by tour operators have faced difficulties securing parking spots, causing lines along nearby connecting roads. At the time, local eateries are experiencing an increase in customers and businesses, in the area is profiting significantly from the influx of tourists.
The combination of intense winter weather, snow-covered landscapes, and the growing popularity of winter tourism has once again confirmed Kalam Valley as one of Pakistan’s most favourite tourist destinations during the winter season.
KP reviews master plans for Swat and Hazara tourist resorts
Earlier on November 12, a high-level progress review meeting regarding the Master Planning of Tourist Resorts in Swat (Madiyan, Bahrain, Kalam, Mahudand, and Mankiyal) and Hazara (Naran, Kaghan, and Batakundi) was held under the chairmanship of Dr Abdul Samad, Secretary, Culture, Tourism, Archaeology and Museums Department, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa.
The meeting was attended by Director General Kaghan Development Authority (KDA), Director General Galiyat Development Authority (GDA), senior officers of the department, and representatives from the consulting firms engaged in the master planning process.
During the session, representatives of the consulting firms presented comprehensive briefings on the progress made so far in the preparation of the Integrated Master Plans for these prime tourist destinations. They informed the meeting about site surveys, land-use analyses, infrastructure proposals, and sustainable development models being incorporated into the plans to promote environmentally responsible and community-inclusive tourism.
Dr Abdul Samad, while appreciating the quality of work and milestones achieved so far, emphasised the importance of completing the final Master Planning reports within the stipulated timeframe. He stated that these master plans would serve as blueprints for developing world-class tourism destinations, creating livelihood opportunities, and ensuring sustainable tourism growth in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa.
He further added that the master planning initiative is aligned with the vision of the Chief Secretary of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, who envisions the province as a regional tourism hub by promoting eco-friendly, culturally rich, and economically viable tourism infrastructure.
Highlighting the special focus of Chief Minister Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Muhammad Sohail Afridi, Dr Samad noted that the provincial government has prioritised the Malakand and Hazara Divisions for accelerated tourism development. Under the Chief Minister’s direction, the department is ensuring efficient coordination among all stakeholders to make these scenic valleys sustainable tourism zones equipped with modern facilities, environmental safeguards, and improved accessibility for local and international tourists.
The Secretary reaffirmed the government’s commitment to facilitating investors, improving tourism infrastructure, and preserving the natural and cultural heritage of the province. He expressed optimism that once the master plans are implemented, these areas will emerge as signature tourist destinations contributing significantly to the economy and job creation in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa.
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