CHITRAL: The KP government has taken measures to develop and promote mountaineering in Chitral, particularly in connection with the 75th anniversary of the historic summit of Tirich Mir, the highest peak in the Hindu Kush range.
In a joint statement, Sartaj Ahmad Khan, former tehsil Nazim of Chitral, and Mehboob Azam, President Chitral Chamber of Commerce, commended the government for announcing a two-year waiver of mountaineering fees, as well as for allocating significant funding, millions of rupees, for the promotion of adventure tourism and expedition-related activities.
“These steps are not just encouraging for local tourism but are a powerful acknowledgment of Chitral’s global standing as a premier mountaineering destination,” said Sartaj Ahmad Khan.
Tirich Mir, standing at 7,708 meters (25,289 feet), is a world-class peak renowned for its technical climbing routes and breathtaking alpine beauty. As the highest mountain outside the Himalayas and Karakoram, it holds immense appeal for international climbers and trekkers. The region also boasts rich cultural heritage and ecological diversity, making it a unique destination for adventure and nature lovers alike.
Promoting expeditions to Tirich Mir and other peaks in Chitral will boost the local economy, generate employment, and place Pakistan on the global map of high-altitude mountaineering,” added Mehboob Azam.
The celebration of 75 years since the first successful summit of Tirich Mir is a milestone that reflects both the historical significance and enduring allure of this majestic peak. The local leadership emphasized the importance of using this opportunity to promote sustainable tourism, improve infrastructure, and attract international climbers to Pakistan.
Both leaders urged continued investment in safety, training, and environmental sustainability to ensure that Chitral maintains its reputation as a world-class mountaineering hub.