ABBOTTABAD: Deputy Commissioner Abbottabad Hameedullah Khan has directed the relevant departments to expedite measures for the identification, restoration and development of tourism and hiking trails in Galiyat, Baragali and Thandiani to promote tourism and improve recreational facilities in the region.
He issued these directions while chairing the third follow-up meeting on the development of hiking trails under the Good Governance Roadmap and District Service Delivery initiative.
The meeting was attended by representatives of the Galiyat Development Authority (GDA), Tourism Department, Forest Department, Tehsil Municipal Administration Abbottabad, Local Government Department, Running and Hiking Club Pakistan (RHCP), and other relevant officials.
The deputy commissioner directed the Tehsil Municipal Administration Abbottabad to obtain quotations for surveying, drone mapping and topographical mapping of 10 previously identified trails and submit them for further consideration.
The Forest Department was instructed to share the PC-I documents of four approved trails with the Deputy Commissioner’s Office, while the GDA was directed to expedite the implementation of approved development schemes and initiate work after completion of the tendering process.
The meeting stressed that all development activities must ensure the protection of the area’s natural beauty, forests, biodiversity and environment. Officials were also directed to pay special attention to tourist safety, identify hazardous locations along the trails and assess mobile network coverage to facilitate visitors.
It was further decided to prepare a four-page informational brochure in collaboration with RHCP, based on verified field data, to guide tourists and hiking enthusiasts.
The meeting also emphasised engaging local communities, students, volunteers and adventure clubs in trail development and promoting sustainable tourism across the region.