SWAT: Director General Upper Swat Development Authority (USDA), Asif Shahab on Tuesday briefed Malakand Division Commissioner Shahidullah Khan about initiatives taken to bolster eco-tourism in Swat.
During a briefing held at the Commissioner’s Office, the SDA DG shed light on various tourism-related endeavors, encroachment issues, parking facilities, and other amenities in the newly-established tourist destinations within Swat. He expressed concerns over the rampant unlawful taxation and rising encroachments in these tourist spots, saying these irresponsible human activities have not only hindered growth of tourism but also inflicted irreparable harm on natural environment. DG Shahab highlighted that the Upper Swat Development Authority was actively collaborating with the KP Tourism Department to develop projects aimed at safeguarding ecosystems while fostering tourism.
Deputy Director Sardar Zeb Khan was also present on the occasion.
On the occasion, Commissioner Shahidullah Khan lauded the proactive measures taken by the USDA to open up new tourist spots in the region. He reiterated the commitment to combat encroachments across Malakand Division, including the tourist sites in Swat and safeguard the region’s natural beauty. The Commissioner warned that strict actions would be taken against any attempts to defile these treasures, emphasizing that the administration would respond promptly to any damage caused by irresponsible actions.
