Afridi commissions the identification and development of new tourist destinations in Kolai-Palas and Allai
Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa Chief Minister Muhammad Sohail Afridi on Friday directed authorities 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 House, CM Afridi reviewed the progress in developmental initiatives, law and order, governance, public service delivery and redressal of grievances across the division. He stressed that tourism promotion continues to be a top strategic priority of the provincial government.
The meeting was informed that Rs 500 crore has been allocated under the Khushhal Hazara package specifically for tourism development projects. CM Afridi directed the concerned departments to ensure high-quality facilities and hospitality for domestic and international tourists, noting that “tourists serve as ambassadors of the positive image of the province.”
He also led the formulation of specific traffic management plans to ensure smooth movement in major tourist destinations during peak seasons.
To address long-standing local issues, the CM ordered the constitution of a commission for permanent resolution of the border dispute between Chor Mali valley and Baleej valley in Kolai-Palas and Battagram districts. He asked for the immediate start of the necessary legal and administrative processes.
The meeting also reviewed monsoon preparedness, with the CM directing all departments to remain on high alert and fully operationalize contingency plans to respond effectively to any emergency.
Highlighting the importance of responsive governance, CM Afridi directed district administrations to further strengthen public participation. He directed the elected representatives to actively participate in Khuli Kacheries and other outreach initiatives for timely resolution of public grievances.
“We will not measure our performance through presentations, but through public satisfaction. The current fiscal year will be a year of peace, development and prosperity,” commented the Prime Minister.
He also announced an enhanced police budget to strengthen law, order and public safety across the province.
Briefing the meeting, the officials informed that 139 development plans are currently being implemented in Hazara division under the Provincial Annual Development Programme, and substantial funds have already been utilised.
Out of 2,111 complaints registered through Pakistan Citizen Portal, 1,879 have been successfully resolved. Under the Open Door Policy, more than 100 Khuli Kacheries have been conducted to strengthen direct public participation.
Significant progress was also reported in the digitization of land records: fully completed in Abbottabad and Battagram, 97 percent in Haripur and 90 percent in Mansehra. Additionally, 20 police facilitation centers are operational in the division and six more are under construction.
The Prime Minister directed all departments to ensure timely and responsible implementation of the decisions taken at the meeting. He reaffirmed the provincial government’s commitment to providing responsive governance, efficient public services, sustainable development and a peaceful environment.
The meeting was attended by KP Assembly Speaker, elected representatives of Hazara Division, Chief Secretary, Police Chief and other senior officials.
