Two ecotourism sites unveiled in Gilgit-Baltistan

GILGIT: IUCN Pakistan, with the support of the Italian Agency for Development Cooperation (AICS) and the Embassy of Italy in Pakistan under the Biodiversity Safeguarding Project, has unveiled two ecotourism sites in Gilgit-Baltistan (G-B).

The sites, located in Minapin Valley Nager and Ghulkin Valley Hunza, feature cultural and architectural restorations. The community-managed ecotourism initiative at Minapin Valley, district Nagar, includes a 200-year-old heritage settlement with four houses and a visitor information center. In addition, four traditional water flour mills, each 200 years old, have been renovated and restored to working order.

To engage the youth and provide alternative livelihood opportunities, three rock climbing pitches of varying difficulty levels have been established for the tourists. Further, a dedicated website has been launched as part of this initiative.

A similar initiative at Ghulkin Valley, district Hunza, includes restoring a 900-year-old heritage house to promote tourism, local cuisine, and local culture. A visitor information centre has been established as part of the old heritage house. A website highlighting tourism destinations in this valley has also been launched.

The four multi-purpose biodiversity corridors have been inaugurated at the Khunjerab National Park, located in the extreme north of Pakistan. The corridors, located at Tourqan, Furzeen Dour, Arbab Kuk, and Kuksil, in the Khunjerab National Park, provide essential habitats for wildlife and promote ecological connectivity.

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Gilgit-Baltistan Minister of Food and Tourism Ghulam Muhammad noted that “conserving natural habitats in Khunjerab National Park is crucial for the survival of its diverse wildlife. The park provides a sanctuary for endangered species such as the snow leopard, Marco Polo sheep, and Himalayan ibex. These newly built multi-purpose biodiversity corridors will play a key role in the free movement of wildlife along the Khunjerab River.”

At the inauguration ceremony, the Head of AICS Islamabad, Francesco Zatta, emphasised the significance of international cooperation in tackling environmental challenges. He stated that “this initiative represents a crucial step in our joint efforts to protect the unique biodiversity of Khunjerab National Park. It embodies the collaborative spirit between Italy and Pakistan in advancing environmental sustainability.”

IUCN Pakistan Country Representative Mahmood Akthar Cheema underscored the potential impact of the project on local communities and ecosystems, stating, “These biodiversity corridors will not only improve habitat connectivity but also support the livelihoods of local communities through ecotourism and sustainable management of natural resources. The project represents a comprehensive conservation approach mutually benefiting nature and people.”

The corridors are not just about protecting and restoring critical habitats, but they are also about ensuring the survival of endangered species and promoting sustainable land use practices. The project aligns with global environmental goals and demonstrates a model for biodiversity conservation that integrates community participation and ecological resilience.