The Khyber Pakhtunkhwa government has announced a Rs. 500 million tourism development package aimed at strengthening tourism across Hazara Division, with a particular focus on identifying, promoting, and developing new tourist destinations in the scenic regions of Kolai-Palas and Alai.
The announcement was made during a high-level review meeting chaired by Chief Minister Ali Amin Khan Gandapur. Officials said the initiative is designed to unlock the tourism potential of Hazara’s mountainous landscapes while improving infrastructure and visitor services across the region.
As part of the package, the provincial government has committed additional funding to upgrade tourist facilities, enhance hospitality services, improve traffic management, and strengthen monsoon preparedness to ensure safer and more comfortable travel for visitors.
The government also announced the formation of a special commission to resolve the long-standing boundary dispute between the Chor Mali and Balej valleys, a move expected to support regional development and facilitate future tourism projects.
District administrations have been directed to increase public engagement and work closely with local communities to ensure that tourism development benefits residents while preserving the area’s natural and cultural heritage.
Officials reported continued progress on several governance initiatives, including the timely completion of development projects, improved complaint resolution mechanisms, and the digitization of land records. These measures are expected to enhance administrative efficiency, increase transparency, and create a more investment-friendly environment for tourism and infrastructure development.
The Hazara Division, home to some of Pakistan’s most spectacular mountain landscapes, forests, rivers, and valleys, is considered one of the country’s premier tourism regions. Provincial authorities believe the new investment will help attract more domestic and international visitors, generate employment opportunities, and contribute to sustainable economic growth.
