An overseas Pakistanis investment group has developed the world’s largest and fastest speedboat to promote adventure tourism in Pakistan. The world’s fastest boat arrived in the country last week as increased tourism opportunities within the country have piqued the interest of investors. The speedboat is light-weighted but strong with the ability to move fast in shallow waters of lakes and rivers.
While Prime Minister Imran Khan envisions Pakistan to be a hub of global tourism, a study released by the World Bank has warned that tourism in the country is placing increasing stress on the local environment. The study suggests that tourism in the mountainous regions is leading to increased pollution, natural habitat loss and pressure on endangered species.
Prime Minister Imran Khan on Monday announced the reopening of tourism industry, a decision taken after the National Coordination Committee (NCC) meeting. While addressing a press conference, Mr Khan said that tourism industry will be reopened because coming months are essential for people associated with tourism. The governments of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and Gilgit-Baltistan would sit together and make Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs).
Pakistan has decided to grant the facility of visa-on-arrival to tourists from 25 countries taking the number to 50 countries. Vice Chairman Overseas Pakistanis Commission, Chaudhary Waseem Akhtar revealed the news on Monday, stating that the incumbent government has undertaken numerous initiatives to boost tourism in the country. The initiative will also project a soft image of Pakistan on the global stage.
Pakistan remains the least competitive country in South Asia when it comes to travel and tourism, according to the Travel and Tourism Competitive Report published by the World Economic Forum. The report placed Pakistan at the bottom of the Asia-Pacific Travel and Tourism (T&T) Competitive Index 2019 rankings. Pakistan ranked 121 this year out of 140 countries against 124 in 2017.