Afridi orders 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 tourism 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 the progress made in development initiatives, law and order, governance, public service delivery and grievance redressal across the division. He stressed that the promotion of tourism remains a major strategic priority of the provincial government.
The meeting was informed that Rs 500 million has been earmarked under the Khushhal Hazara scheme specifically for tourism development projects. CM Afridi asked relevant departments to ensure high quality facilities and hospitality to domestic and international tourists, noting that “tourists are the ambassadors of the positive image of the province.”
He also led the formulation of dedicated traffic management plans to ensure smooth traffic flow in major tourist destinations during peak seasons.
To resolve long-standing local issues, the CM ordered the constitution of a commission for permanent resolution of the boundary dispute between Chor Mali Valley and Baleej Valley in Kolai-Palas and Battagram districts. He called for the immediate initiation of the necessary legal and administrative procedures.
The meeting also reviewed monsoon preparedness with the CM directing all departments to remain on alert and fully implement contingency plans to respond effectively to any emergency.
Highlighting the importance of responsive governance, CM Afridi asked district administrations to further strengthen public engagement. He asked the elected representatives to actively involve themselves in Khuli Kacheries and other awareness initiatives for speedy resolution of public complaints.
“We will measure our performance not through presentations, but through public satisfaction. The current financial year will be a year of peace, development and prosperity,” the chief minister remarked.
He also announced an increase in the police budget to strengthen public order and public safety across the province.
At the meeting, officials informed that 139 development projects are currently being implemented in Hazara division under the provincial annual development program, with substantial funds already utilized.
Out of 2,111 complaints registered through the Pakistan Citizen Portal, 1,879 have been successfully resolved. Under the open door policy, more than 100 Khuli Kacheries were organized to enhance direct public engagement.
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, with six more under construction.
The Chief Minister asked all departments to ensure prompt and responsible implementation of the decisions taken in the meeting. He reaffirmed the provincial government’s commitment to ensuring responsive governance, efficient public services, sustainable development and a peaceful environment.
The meeting was attended by the KP Assembly Speaker, elected representatives of Hazara division, chief secretary, police chief and other senior officers.
