DLP Report
PESHAWAR
Special Assistant to Chief Minister Khyber Pakhtunkhwa on Tourism and Culture Malik Adeel Iqbal said on Thursday that the provincial government was taking practical steps to modernize the tourism sector and provide world-class facilities to visitors.
Speaking as chief guest at a business briefing on the International Silk Route Festival 2026, organized by Sarhad Chamber of Commerce and Industry in collaboration with Silk Road Enterprises, he said Tourist Facilitation Centres would be established at major tourist destinations and a one-window operation introduced for investors.
Mr Iqbal said that under the _Mezban Programme_, deserving individuals were being given interest-free loans to renovate homes and convert them into tourist homestays. “This will not only provide quality accommodation but also generate employment and strengthen the local economy,” he said.
He added that Tourism Helpline 1422 had been launched and Tourism Police deployed in tourist areas to ensure safety. The government was also working to restore the Ayubia Chairlift and planning parking plazas in Nathia Gali to ease traffic congestion.
Warning against illegal construction, he said those building without a No Objection Certificate would be held responsible and laws would be strictly enforced. He also called for action against corrupt elements in the Tourism Department.
Sarhad Chamber President Junaid Altaf, business leaders and investors attended the session, which was briefed on trade, investment and cultural opportunities under the International Silk Route Festival 2026.
