CM approves to bring KITE under tourism authority

F.P. Report

PESHAWAR: Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Chief Minister Mahmood Khan Monday approved to bring Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Integrated Tourism Enterprise Project (KITE) under tourism authority and directed to make ready Arbab Niaz Stadium to host the next Pakistan Super League tournament.

While chairing a meeting regarding the performance review of sports, culture and tourism department and the functionalization of tourism authority in the province, the Chief Minister directed the department to ensure maximum utilization of developmental funds and to avoid lapses.

The meeting was attended by Advisor to CM for merged districts Ajmal Wazir, Special Assistant on Excise & Taxation Ghazan Jamal, Additional Chief Secretary Shakeel Qadar, Secretary Sports, DG Culture & Tourism Authority and other officials.

The Chief Minister also directed the department to undertake measures for promotion of high end tourism in the province which will generate revenue, helping the province to become financially self sufficient.

He directed the department to undertake measures for initiation of under 21 games, national youth Carnival and talent hunt program along with immediate functionalization of Jawan Markaz throughout the province.

The meeting decided for identification and promotion of tourist activities in the southern districts during winters and holding of folk & spring festivals across the province.

The Chief Minister directed to conduct feasibility into the establishment of center of excellence for sports and introduction of sports as a subject in the curriculum along with directing the department to immediately start working on promoting co-curricular and cultural activities in the educational institutions of the province.

The meeting was told that a free toll helpline has been setup which will provide information on available tourism options which will help in efficient planning by tourists.

The meeting was informed that six out of nine facilitation centers have been completed in Malakand Division whereas tele-marketing and installations of tourist stalls will soon be initiated throughout the country.

The meeting was briefed on the short term and long term planning of tourism department in the province.

The Chief Minister directed to expedite the loan in grant program for youth of the province in order to provide them with business opportunities. The youth should also be provided with expert guidance to facilitate them in setting up of businesses.

Mahmood Khan said that implementation of Prime Minister Imran Khan’s vision & mission for tourism in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa will be ensured at every cost.