RAWALPINDI: Anticipating an estimated 400,000 tourists’ influx in Murree in next 48 hours in view of Independence Day celebrations, caretaker Chief Minister Mohsin Naqvi on Saturday ordered a fresh security and traffic plan for Murree.

He was chairing a special meeting held at the Government House in Murree. The purpose of the meeting was to thoroughly review the arrangements for August 14.

During the briefing, it was highlighted that an estimated 400,000 tourists were expected to visit Murree in the next 48 hours. A comprehensive traffic management strategy for Independence Day was a focal point of discussion. Commissioner Rawalpindi Liaquat Ali Chattha presented details about the fireworks scheduled for the night between August 13 and 14, along with musical performances on Aug 14.

The caretaker Chief Minister Mohsin Naqvi issued directives to take strict actions against any unauthorised constructions or encroachments within the district. He also emphasised the need to expand the tourist area in the district.

400,000 tourists estimated to visit the hill station in next 48 hours Chief Secretary Zahid Akhtar Zaman elaborated on plans intended to facilitate both tourists and residents in Murree.

With the influx of visitors expected on Independence Day, Chief Minister Mohsin Naqvi stressed the importance of prearrangements.

The meeting revealed that a spectacular firework display is set to grace the skies at Kashmir Point in Murree on the night of Independence Day. Furthermore, parks and various tourist spots will host firework shows and musical performances.

Among the topics discussed were decisions concerning Murree’s master plan, the enhancement of facilities, and the management of traffic flow. Punjab Chief Secretary, Rawalpindi Commissioner, RPO, CPO, deputy commissioner, representatives from the departments of forests, tourism, NHA, PHA, DG RDA, and other relevant officials.

The meeting also saw the participation of Provincial Information Minister Amir Mir, Additional Chief Secretary, Additional Chief Secretary Home, the secretaries of Housing, Communication and Works, as well as Health department participated via video link.

Meanwhile, Punjab caretaker Minister for Primary and Secondary Healthcare and Population Welfare Dr Jamal Nasir on Saturday said that there was a lot of opportunities of development in the tourism sector and special attention was being given for the promotion of tourism in Punjab.

He was visiting the First International Tourism Investment Exhibition in Rawalpindi organised by Pakistan Tourism Development Corporation and Brain Designer.

Dr Jamal Nasir said that promoting the tourism sector for economic development is the most important need of the hour. He said that bilateral relations with different countries will be strengthened for the promotion of tourism.

On this occasion Dr Jamal Nasir visited handicraft and other stalls set up by the embassies of Iran, Azerbaijan, Malaysia, Thailand and government departments.

Dr Jamal Nasir went to various stalls and appreciated their work and said that women are playing an important role in the development and economy of the country.

Earlier inaugural Ceremony of two days tourism investment Exhibition was held which was participated by ambassadors of different countries.

PTDC Managing Director Aftabur Rehman Rana briefed about the opportunities of tourism attractions in Pakistan while addressing First International Tourism Conference.

He also elaborated initiatives adopted by the government of Pakistan for tourism expansion and said new Tourist Resorts were being developed besides upgrading existing tourist facilities.

Published in Dawn, August 13th, 2023