SHANDUR: Despite no support from authorities, the Chitral Heritage and Environment Protection Sustainability (CHEPS) carried out an independent cleanliness and awareness campaign during the Shandur Polo Festival 2025.
According to a statement, CHEPS had earlier submitted a proposal to the KP Tourism Department, urging the inclusion of environmental protection measures in the festival’s planning. The proposal went unanswered and no environmental component was incorporated.
In response, CHEPS mobilized volunteers, including students, professionals and youth, who traveled at their own expense to Shandur. The team conducted daily cleanup efforts, raised awareness about plastic pollution, and organized walks to highlight the ecological importance of Shandur Lake and its surroundings.
Volunteers also documented visible environmental degradation, including garbage accumulation and disruption to wildlife due to unchecked tourism.
CHEPS’s efforts, though limited in resources, were well received by visitors. The organization has urged authorities to prioritize environmental protection in future festivals and reaffirmed its commitment to sustainable tourism and preservation of Chitral’s natural heritage
Rehmat Ali,you are doing a great service.Your passion and motivation drives so many others.I am happy to be a member of CHEPS.