Afridi commissions identification and development of new tourist destinations in Kolai-Palas and Allai
Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa Chief Minister Muhammad Sohail Afridi on Friday directed the authorities to identify and develop new tourist destinations in Kolai-Palas and Allai to unlock the huge 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 redressal across the division. He stressed that the promotion of tourism remains a top strategic priority for 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 directed concerned departments to ensure high-quality facilities and hospitality for both domestic and international tourists, noting that “tourists serve as ambassadors for the province’s positive image.”
He also led the formulation of dedicated traffic management plans to ensure smooth movement in major tourist destinations during the peak season.
To resolve long-standing local issues, the CM ordered the setting up of a commission for permanent settlement of the border dispute between Chor Mali Valley and Baleej Valley in Kolai-Palas and Battagram districts. He called for the immediate initiation of necessary legal and administrative processes.
The meeting also reviewed the monsoon preparedness where the CM ordered all departments to remain on high alert and fully operationalize contingency plans to respond effectively to any emergency.
CM Afridi highlighted the importance of responsive governance and directed district administrations to further strengthen public engagement. He directed that elected representatives should be actively involved in Khuli Kacheries and other outreach initiatives for timely redressal of public grievances.
“We will measure our achievements not through presentations but through public satisfaction. The current financial year will be one of peace, development and prosperity,” the Chief Minister remarked.
He also announced an improved police budget to strengthen law and order and public safety across the province.
Briefing the meeting, officials informed that 139 development schemes are currently under implementation in Hazara Division under the Provincial Annual Development Programme, with substantial funds already spent.
Out of 2,111 complaints registered through Pakistan Citizen Portal, 1,879 have been resolved. Under the Open Door Policy, more than 100 Khuli Kacheries have been implemented to strengthen direct public engagement.
Significant progress in digitization of land records was also reported: fully implemented 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 instructed all departments to ensure timely and responsible implementation of the decisions taken at the meeting. He reaffirmed the commitment of the provincial government to deliver responsive governance, efficient public services, sustainable development and a peaceful environment.
KP assembly speaker, elected representatives of Hazara division, chief secretary, police chief and other senior officers attended the meeting.
