SKARDU, July 12: A monument is going to be built in the heart of Skardu city to commemorate first scaling of K-2, the world's second highest peak, some 50 years back by Italian mountaineer Lino Lacedelli.

This was stated by Mr Imran, the advisor for Tourism and Health while talking to APP here on Monday. He said that the Northern Areas Tourism Board had approved this plan and the executing agency of this monument is Northern Areas Public Works Department.

This monument is being constructed with an eye to promoting tourism in this part of Pakistan. He disclosed that this plan would cost Rs.5.8 million. He said that special documentaries are being made which will be made available on CDs later on.

He said the construction of the monument is part of the golden jubilee ceremony. He said that ground-breaking ceremony of this plan would be carried out by Lino Lacedelli after he turns up on July 15 from base camp of K-2.

He said that Italian climbers present already in the base camp of K-2 will commemorate the climb of their countryman on July 31, 1954. Mr Imran said that the climber's daughter, Alberta Lacedelli is expected to visit the Federal Government Degree College for Girls, Skardu, on the special invitation of Mrs Fareeda Batool, member of the Northern Areas Legislative Council. -APP