Special Correspondent
Peshawar, April 28, 2026: The Khyber Pakhtunkhwa government has decided to shift the organization of the annual Qaqlasht Festival to the Sports Department from next year.
The decision was announced by Adviser to the Chief Minister on Sports and Youth Affairs, Taj Muhammad Khan Tarand, during a meeting chaired by Deputy Speaker of the KP Assembly Suriya Bibi.
The meeting, held at the Deputy Speaker’s chamber, reviewed the development of sports infrastructure in Upper Chitral, including the establishment of new playgrounds, the condition of existing polo grounds, and other activities in the sports sector.
Officials informed the meeting that the Qaqlasht Festival has also been included in the PC-1 planning framework to ensure its proper organization and long-term sustainability.
It was further decided that instead of the Qaqlasht Festival this year, the Broghil Festival and polo matches will be held at the Qaqlasht ground, promoting both sports and cultural activities in the region.
The Broghil Festival is scheduled to take place in July.
The adviser also announced that a sports complex for Upper Chitral would be included in the next Annual Development Programme (ADP) to provide better facilities and opportunities for local youth.
In addition, the existing ground in Upper Chitral will be upgraded into a modern stadium. Regarding Reshun ground, the Sports Department will purchase the required land, and necessary directives have already been issued.
The meeting was also informed that the tender for the establishment of a Youth Center has been floated, and work on the project is expected to begin soon.
Efforts are underway to address the shortage of sports staff in Upper Chitral, and relevant officials have been directed to expedite the necessary administrative procedures.
Deputy Speaker Soraya Bibi appreciated the efforts of the Sports Department and expressed satisfaction over the initiatives aimed at promoting sports and providing facilities to the youth in the region.