ISLAMABAD: In a significant development, the Green Tourism Company, under the auspices of the Special Investment Facilitation Council, has announced a major investment in the tourism sector of Gilgit-Baltistan.
This move is expected to trigger a wave of economic activities in the region, creating much-needed employment opportunities for the youth, media reported.The youth of Gilgit-Baltistan have hailed this initiative as an economic game changer, expressing optimism that it will pave the way for the implementation of new tourism-related projects.
The region’s stunning natural beauty, rich cultural heritage, and adventure tourism potential are expected to attract visitors from across the globe, injecting new life into the local economy.
According to PTV, the Green Tourism Company’s investment will focus on developing eco-friendly tourism infrastructure, promoting sustainable tourism practices, and showcasing the region’s unique cultural and natural attractions.
This initiative is expected to create a positive ripple effect, benefiting local communities and contributing to the region’s overall economic growth.
The Special Investment Facilitation Council has welcomed the Green Tourism Company’s investment, emphasizing its commitment to supporting initiatives that promote economic development and job creation in Gilgit-Baltistan.
With this investment, the region is poised to become a thriving tourism hub, offering a unique and unforgettable experience for visitors while empowering local communities to drive economic growth.
It is pertinent to mention that in the summer season of 2023, Gilgit-Baltistan (GB) witnessed a notable influx of over 2,050 foreign climbers and trekkers, apart from around 9,000 foreign tourists.The GB government collected Rs40.5 million in permit fees for climbing peaks during this period.
The tourism department reported that over 9,000 foreign tourists, including paragliders and trekkers in open zones, explored GB in 2023.
Among the visitors, 2,050 foreign climbers and trekkers endeavoured to ascend various peaks, including the renowned five eight-thousanders: K2, Nanga Parbat, Gasherbrum-I, Gasherbrum-II, and Broad Peak. This marked the highest number of foreign tourists visiting the region in the past two decades.
Tour operators suggested that implementing specific measures could further attract a greater number of foreign tourists, while simultaneously criticising the role of the tourism department.
Numerous foreign tourists faced challenges visiting GB due to visa complexities and related issues. Mohammad Ali, representing the Pakistan Association of Tour Operators, pointed out what he called the intricate and time-consuming nature of the visa process. According to him, obtaining a Pakistan visa after application takes several months.
“The prolonged delays and security clearance procedures compel many foreigners to abandon their plans to visit Pakistan,” Mr Ali said.
Asghar Ali Porik, a tour operator from GB, pointed out the complications faced by foreign tourists, mountaineers, and trekkers in applying for visas. He noted that the online visa application form, available on the official website, is only in English, restricting tourists from countries with other languages.
