Khyber Pakhtunkhwa’s Department of Tourism has launched two plans for three tourist destinations in the province to promote responsible tourism by suggesting diversity and quality. The plans will also provide guidance for tourist planning and destination management in Kalam, Kumrat, and Chitral.

Destination Investment and Management Plans (DIMPs), and Visitor Management Plans (VMPs) are prepared by the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Department of Tourism through the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Integrated Tourism Development Project (KITE) with the support of international experts.

The presenters at the event informed the attendees about investment prospects in the public and private sectors. They stated that tailored strategies have been created for each location to direct the public and private sectors' investments, and that destination management will result in a better tourist experience, better regulation, and better resource mobilisation.

Chief Minster Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Mahmood Khan in his message on the occasion said: "Khyber Pakhtunkhwa is well positioned as a preferred tourism destination, it has a considerable competitive advantage due to the natural endowments and a culture of hospitality." The government, he continued, is working to preserve both natural and cultural resources in addition to focusing on generating employment possibilities.

Secretary Tourism Muhammad Tahir stated that initiatives are being taken to create new tourism destinations and enhance management of the ones that already exist. It is important to prepare the sites for a surge in visitors during peak season and to use this opportunity to create economic opportunities. KITE Project Director Touseef Khalid gave a briefing on sustainable tourism initiatives and innovative approaches, including, development and planning for new and existing destinations, a reduced carbon footprint, and heritage preservation.

Kiran Afzal, a senior private sector specialist at the World Bank, commended the Department of Tourism for reaching this significant milestone. She said that DIMPs can especially help the authorities manage the high-usage sites by suggesting mitigating measures to safeguard the attractions and prepare the sites against unforeseen crises. The workshop included a special discussion on the topic of "Sustainable Tourism: The Way Forward." The attendees discussed potential for the local economy as well as many facets of sustainable tourism.

Credit : Independent News Pakistan-WealthPk