KP Minister Emphasizes Role of Kalash Valleys Development Authority in Tourism and Environment ProtectionElection Commission of Pakistan Warns Against Unfair Advantages in General Elections

Peshawar, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Caretaker Minister for Information, Culture and Tourism, Barrister Feroze Jamal Shah Kakakhel, has underscored the critical role of the Kalash Valleys Development Authority in driving the development of the Kalash Valleys of Chitral, particularly in promoting tourism and protecting the natural environment.

According to Directorate General Information and PRs – Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, the Minister issued directives to expedite efforts to bolster the Kalash Valleys Development Authority during a Board of Authority meeting held at the Department of Tourism on Tuesday. The meeting, chaired by Chairman Prince Maqsoodul Malik, was attended by Director General KVDA Minhasuddin, senior officials of the Department of Tourism, Culture, Archeology and Museum, and other board members.

The Minister emphasized the importance of the Valley’s preservation, not just in terms of its natural beauty and ecological balance but also in maintaining its historical architecture and unique cultural identity. Discussions at the meeting centered around several key issues, including reducing the environmental impact of tourism, managing waste effectively, encouraging eco-friendly practices among tourists, and safeguarding the area’s biodiversity.

The meeting involved a comprehensive review of the authority’s financial affairs, roles, the formation of various committees, staff availability, office resources, and field formation aspects. Director General KVDA Minhasuddin provided an update on the progress made so far, existing challenges, and various recommendations.

A detailed presentation on the proposed rules and regulations regarding development and non-development issues in the Kalash Valleys was also given. The Minister urged for concerted efforts to utilize existing resources effectively. He called for regular reviews of progress and consistent meetings to ensure transparency and effective implementation of decisions.

Barrister Feroze Jamal Shah Kakakhel also highlighted the importance of active committee roles within the authority. He directed for the swift activation of these committees to facilitate mutual consultation and advance initiatives under the authority’s jurisdiction.

The meeting marks a significant step towards enhancing the role of the Kalash Valleys Development Authority in preserving the unique heritage and natural environment of the region while promoting sustainable tourism and development.

Islamabad, The Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP) has issued a stern warning to local government functionaries across various provinces, emphasizing the importance of maintaining a level playing field for all candidates in the upcoming 2024 General Elections.

According to Election Commission of Pakistan, it has been brought to their attention that some elected heads of local governments are providing unfair advantages to certain contesting candidates. The ECP has highlighted instances where local government officials have been facilitating candidates by utilizing manpower and state machinery, which violates the established code of conduct.

The letter, addressed to the Chief Secretaries of Punjab, Sindh, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, and Balochistan, as well as the Provincial Election Commissioners, underlines the necessity for all functionaries of local governments to abstain from extending any support to contesting candidates. It was made clear that any failure to comply with these directives would result in strict action against the violators.

Furthermore, the ECP has instructed District Monitoring Teams to take decisive measures against any such violations to ensure fairness and equality in the electoral process. This move signifies the Commission’s commitment to a transparent and equitable election, free from undue influence and corruption.

The directive, signed by Syed Nadeem Haider, Additional Director General (Elections-II), reiterates the Election Commission’s resolve to conduct the General Elections with integrity and in accordance with the democratic principles enshrined in Pakistan’s constitution.

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