In an exciting move to promote tourism and eco-friendly recreation, the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP) government has unveiled plans to develop picnic and recreational areas at various dam sites across the province. The initiative intends to encourage both local and domestic tourism by making use of KP’s natural beauty and water reservoirs.
Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Culture and Tourism Authority (KPCTA) Director General Habibullah Arif said on Thursday that a dedicated picnic spot would soon be developed at Kundal Dam as part of efforts to upgrade tourism infrastructure in the province.
Phase One: Developing Scenic Picnic Spots
According to Habibullah Arif, the first phase will focus on the development of recreational facilities at:
• Naryab Dam (Hangu)
• Kundal Dam (Swabi)
• Chatri Dam (Haripur)
“These dams are already known for their scenic surroundings. With the addition of proper facilities, we aim to make them ideal spots for family outings and day trips,” Arif said.
Facilities to Enhance Visitor Experience
The project is assumed to be the part of a broader effort to upgrade tourism infrastructure and improve visitor comfort. Planned amenities at each site include:
• Paved walking paths for leisurely strolls
• Food stalls offering snacks and local cuisine
• Clean restrooms and seating areas
• Basic safety and accessibility features
Read more: Construction of 36 small dams under way in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa
Arif emphasized that the goal is to offer families and tourists a chance to enjoy nature in comfort and safety, while also boosting local economies through tourism.
A Surprising Contrast: Ban on School Trips
In a separate and somewhat contrasting development, the KP Education Department has issued a province-wide ban on all school-organized trips and picnics for students in government schools.
The directive, released by the Elementary and Secondary Education Department, instructs all government institutions to refrain from arranging field trips, recreational tours, or picnics.
• The notification was circulated to District Education Officers (DEOs) and across merged districts, emphasizing strict compliance.
While the reason for the ban hasn’t been explicitly stated, it raises questions about balancing student welfare with recreational and educational exposure.
Conclusion
As KP moves forward with ambitious plans to improve tourism, these contrasting decisions reflect the complexities of governance—investing in public leisure while navigating administrative constraints in education. Nonetheless, the dam tourism project is set to open up new avenues for family-friendly travel and economic development in the region.