The Khyber Pakhtunkhwa government, in collaboration with a World Bank delegation, conducted a review meeting on Wednesday to assess the progress of road infrastructure projects under the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Integrated Tourism Development Project (KITE). Officials emphasized the need for timely completion and strict adherence to construction standards.
Meeting Chaired by Tourism Special Assistant
The review meeting was chaired by Malik Adil Iqbal, Special Assistant to the Chief Minister for Tourism, Culture, Archaeology and Museums. The session focused on road construction and upgrading schemes in key tourist destinations, including Mankial in Swat and Thandiani in Abbottabad. These projects aim to improve access and support the province's tourism sector.
Stakeholder Participation
Senior officials from the Tourism, Communication and Works, and Planning and Development departments attended the meeting, along with representatives of the World Bank and other stakeholders. The participants reviewed the pace of work, implementation challenges, and project quality. They discussed measures to ensure that the schemes are completed within the agreed timeframe and in line with prescribed standards.
Importance of Road Infrastructure
Addressing the meeting, Malik Adil Iqbal stated that improved road infrastructure is essential for providing safer and more reliable access to tourist destinations. He noted that such upgrades would help unlock the province's tourism potential. The provincial government remains committed to strengthening the tourism sector through sustained investment in infrastructure, he added.
Quality and Timeliness Emphasized
Iqbal directed the concerned departments to expedite work without compromising quality. The meeting also agreed to hold a follow-up review in two weeks to assess progress and resolve any outstanding issues. This follow-up ensures continuous monitoring and accountability.
