CHITRAL: In a historic initiative aimed at putting Chitral on the global mountaineering map, the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa government has declared 2025 as the “Year of Trich Mir”, marking the 75th anniversary of the first successful ascent of the 7,708-meter peak, the highest in the Hindu Kush and in KP.
At an event organized by the KP Culture and Tourism Authority, Finance Advisor Muzamil Aslam announced that the provincial government will fully sponsor expeditions to Trich Mir, covering training, logistics, and equipment.
In a further boost to attract international climbers, the government has waived all royalty fees for the next two years.
“This is a proud moment for KP, and especially for Chitral,” Mr. Aslam said. “We want the world to see the potential of our majestic mountains and the hospitality of our people.”
The event was attended by MNA Faisal Amin Khan Gandapur, KP Tourism DG Habibullah Arif, PTDC chief Aftab Rana, and Thomas Dar, Deputy Head of Mission at the Norwegian Embassy.
Renowned Italian mountaineer and Nishan-e-Imtiaz recipient Carlo Alberto Pinelli was also presnet.
Representing Mountain Wilderness International, Mr. Pinelli signed an MoU with the tourism authority to initiate professional mountaineering training programs in Chitral and Swat.
Veteran Pakistani climbers Tayyab Syed and Abbas, who were part of the 1991 Japan-Pakistan expedition that reached within 100 meters of Trich Mir’s summit, were honored for their pioneering efforts.
Ambassadors, tourism officials, and adventurers from around the world were in attendance, underscoring the growing interest in KP’s mountain tourism sector.
The announcement is expected to give a significant boost to Chitral’s local economy, with increased opportunities for guides, porters, and hospitality businesses.
Local stakeholders welcomed the move, calling it a “turning point” for Chitral’s adventure tourism potential.