Ziarat to be Developed as Tourist Destination: CM Bugti

APP

Quetta: Chief Minister of Balochistan, Mir Sarfraz Bugti, announced that in the next two years, Ziarat will be transformed into a unique, international, and national tourist destination.

The CM made these remarks during a review meeting on the Ziarat Development Authority (ZDA) held at the Chief Minister’s Secretariat.

The meeting, attended by key officials including Provincial Minister for Food Noor Muhammad Dummar, Chief Secretary Balochistan Shakeel Qadir Khan, and others, was briefed on the performance of the ZDA and proposed future projects. The attendees agreed to invite proposals from national and international firms to develop a feasible plan for turning Ziarat into an eco-friendly tourism hub.

In a significant move, the government also decided to utilize additional rest houses and buildings in Ziarat under a public-private partnership (PPP) model. This initiative aims to increase government resources and ensure the effective use of infrastructure previously reserved for dignitaries.

Addressing the meeting, CM Bugti emphasized that the ZDA would operate as an independent institution, free from political interference. He assured that no political figure would be allowed to influence its operations, ensuring merit-based decision-making and transparency in all activities.

He further stressed the importance of protecting Ziarat’s natural resources, directing the Forest Department to prepare recommendations for safeguarding the region’s pine forests and wildlife. The CM also highlighted the need for alternative energy sources for Ziarat’s residents to preserve the environment.

To ensure the smooth functioning of the ZDA, CM Bugti called for necessary amendments to the ZDA Act, which will be vetted by the Law Department and presented for Cabinet approval.

Ziarat, known for its lush pine forests and historical significance, is set to become a premier destination for both national and international tourists.