7.4 Eco-Tourism
Pakistan, comprising of many scenic areas and valleys especially in the north has high potential of eco-tourism but so far no comprehensive work has been done on this sector by any government or non-government or private sector. Although this sector can earn great revenue for the country in an environment friendly way is being ignored. Environmental Protection Society was well aware of this fact since the beginning and highlighted it in different forums. In 2005 the Society took practical steps when it found the opportunity of partnership with UNDP PTF Program. Under this project the Society established an eco-camp in one of the beautiful valley of Swat/Buner name Elum Valley. The Society then organized a national workshop titling “Promotion of Eco-Tourism” in 2007 and in the light of the recommendations so received from the participants a five year plan for tourism promotion was developed. The Society also constituted an “Eco-Tourism Promotion Committee” with Ex. Minister to GoNWFP Mr. Mian Gul Asfandyar Amir Zeb as the Chairman, EPS the Secretariat and representative from Hotel Association, Tourist Guide, Transport Association, Generalists, Air Port Security Force, Deawoo Services as its members. Meeting of the committee were conducted on monthly basis to work for materializing the plan but after the third meeting the security situation in Swat became worst and it was decided to stop the activities till the restoration of peace in the area.
