K-P CM Afridi vows peace, uplift as Hazara tourism gets major push

 Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa Chief Minister Muhammad Sohail Afridi directed authorities on Friday to identify and develop new tourist destinations in Kolai-Palas and Allai to unlock the immense tourism potential of Hazara Division.

Chairing a high-level review meeting at the Chief Minister’s House, CM Afridi reviewed progress on development initiatives, law and order, governance, public service delivery, and grievance redressal across the division. He stressed that tourism promotion remains a top strategic priority of the provincial government.

The meeting was informed that Rs500 million has been earmarked under the Khushhal Hazara Package specifically for tourism development projects. CM Afridi instructed concerned departments to ensure high-quality facilities and hospitality for both domestic and international tourists, noting that “tourists serve as ambassadors of the province’s positive image.”

He also directed the formulation of dedicated traffic management plans to ensure smooth movement in major tourist destinations during peak seasons.

To address longstanding local issues, the CM ordered the constitution of a commission for the permanent resolution of the boundary dispute between Chor Mali Valley and Baleej Valley in Kolai-Palas and Battagram districts. He called for immediate initiation of necessary legal and administrative processes.

The meeting also reviewed monsoon preparedness, with the CM directing all departments to remain on high alert and fully operationalise contingency plans to respond effectively to any emergency.