According to the statement from World Bank, the number of tourists to Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP) has rapidly increased in recent years. The federal and provincial governments have prioritised sustainable tourism as a driver of economic growth and job creation. The World Bank committed $70 million in concessional financing for the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Integrated Tourism Development Project. This project will invest in infrastructure development, strengthen institutions with business-friendly regulations and enhance technology use.
“Khyber Pakhtunkhwa has vast natural endowments and heritage assets that make it attractive for enhancing sustainable tourism. This project will support the province to build the needed capability and finance investments to harness this potential,” said Illango Patchamuthu World Bank country director for Pakistan.
Nearly half a million entrepreneurs and travelers will benefit from the upgraded facilities at different tourist destinations. The project will introduce sustainable destination management through the up gradation of infrastructure, facilities and assets.
Initially the focus will be on Chitral, Galliyat, Kalam, and Naran. Environmental preservation will be a priority through waste recycling and management, including single-use plastics. Women and youth in the local communities will benefit through enhanced skills. International Development Association, the concessional financing arm of the World Bank, will finance the KP tourism project.
