Govt hailed for Terichmir festival, base camp at Oweer
M. Irshadullah Khan
PESHAWAR: The residents of Oweer Upper Chitral gathered in Barum valley under the leadership of their VC chairman to express gratitude to the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa government and Chitral Tourism and Trade Association for organizing the Terichmir festival and establishing Shakur Shal (Oweer) as a base camp.
The locals reminisced about the rich history of the region, recalling that in 1950 the renowned Norwegian expedition leader Aron Naess had established Shakur Shal as a base camp and successfully climbed Terichmir, paving the way for further mountaineering expeditions. The area remained a base camp for mountaineers until 1975, attracting adventurers from around the world.
The local community and elected local bodies representatives, including former nazims and leaders of various political parties, unanimously endorsed the government’s decision, acknowledging the festival’s potential to promote tourism, economic growth, and cultural exchange in the region. They termed the festival a historical right of Oweer, recognizing the region’s immense tourism potential and the government’s efforts to develop the sector.
The residents expressed the hope that the festival would bring economic benefits to the area, creating opportunities for local businesses and employment for the youth. They also appreciated the government’s recognition of the region’s potential and its efforts to develop the tourism sector, which would showcase the region’s unique cultural heritage and breathtaking natural beauty to the world.
The event was a testament to the government’s commitment to promoting tourism and developing the region, and the citizens’ appreciation was a clear indication of their support for such initiatives.