Balochistan province is poised to transform into a thriving domestic and international tourism hub following the inauguration of the New Gwadar International Airport. This airport, generously provided by the Chinese government as part of the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC), is expected to stimulate tourism growth in the region.
Aftab ur Rehman Rana, the Managing Director of the Pakistan Tourism Development Corporation (PTDC), expressed optimism about Balochistan’s tourism potential. He highlighted the recent surge in domestic tourism in the region and explained that with the commencement of airport operations, geographical barriers would diminish, making way for an influx of tourists into Gwadar and its surrounding areas.
To support and facilitate tourism, the PTDC plans to establish a tourist information center at the airport. This center will provide tourists with comprehensive information about hotels, tourist sites, and other essential details.
Rana further revealed that the Balochistan Coastal Development Authority has developed a master plan, identifying coastal areas for the development of tourist sites. Balochistan’s stunning coastline is set to host eco-tourism resorts, beach parks, floating jetties, and relaxation spots, catering to both domestic and international tourists.
Addressing security concerns, Rana outlined the phased approach for tourism development. Initially, group tourism will be permitted to ensure the safety of tourists. Travelers will be required to share their plans with a dedicated tourism police force. As tourism becomes more common, individual tourists will have the opportunity to explore the area independently, backed by a comprehensive security plan.
The China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) was hailed as a significant factor in boosting Pakistan’s domestic tourism. Rana emphasized that CPEC’s extensive road network passes through the country, granting easy access to major tourism sites and enhancing connectivity.
The PTDC is actively engaged in discussions with Chinese tour operators to attract Chinese outbound tourists and business professionals to Pakistan. A group of tour operators from China recently visited Pakistan, and a delegation of Pakistani tour operators is scheduled to visit China for the China Outbound Travel and Tourism Market exhibition in November.
Rana believes that Pakistan holds great business potential in the tourism sector. He encourages Chinese investors to invest in building hotels and resorts in Pakistan, which would not only attract Chinese tourists but also elevate the overall tourism industry in the country.
The China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC), launched in 2013, is a flagship project of the China-proposed Belt and Road Initiative. It establishes a corridor linking Pakistan’s Gwadar port with Kashgar in northwest China’s Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region, with a focus on energy, transport, and industrial cooperation. CPEC has played a pivotal role in promoting tourism in Pakistan by enhancing connectivity and easing road travel for tourists.
Balochistan’s New Gwadar International Airport marks a significant step toward the province’s emergence as a prominent tourism destination, benefiting both the local economy and international travelers.
