MANSEHRA: The Kolai-PalasDistrict Development Advisory Committee has decided to explore tourism potential as part of efforts to create employment opportunities and alleviate poverty in the erstwhile part of Kohistan region. “If the government is sincere about addressing poverty, unemployment, and educational challenges, it should declare this remote and backward district a tourist destination and develop infrastructure,” DDAC chairman and MPA Sardar Mohammad Riazof told reporters. He said that the DDAC recently decided to inform the chief minister and his adviser on tourism Zahid Chanzeb about the district’s tourism potential. “Our literacy rate is quite low compared with that in the neighbouring districts, while people also have poor access to healthcare and other basic facilities,” he complained. MPA says tourism promotion will create employment, alleviate poverty Mr Riaz said though the provincial government had been taking significant steps to reduce poverty and improve health and educational services, real progress could be made by promoting formal learning and building infrastructure. “I have invited the chief minister’s adviser on tourism to visit Kolai-Palas to see the natural beauty, especially picturesque valleys and waterfalls, which could attract visitors from within the country and abroad,” he said. Mr Riaz said the DDC had also submitted development proposals to the government for approval to promote tourism in the region. REBUILDING OF POLICE STATION DELAYED: The reconstruction of the city police station, which was demolished over cracks caused by the 2005 earthquake, has been incomplete even 10 years after the work began. “The reconstruction of this police station was suspended almost seven years ago due to a shortage of funds,” district dispute resolution council member Mazhar Shah toldDawn. The building with a Mughal architectural design developed dangerous cracks during the 2005 earthquake. “Half of the reconstruction was over seven five years ago but a lack of funds delayed the completion of the remaining work,” he said. Mr Shah said the offices of the district dispute resolution council and the deputy superintendent of police also used to operate from that building. “The city police station has been set up in a rented building putting an extra financial burden on the exchequer,” he said. He said the communication and works department should not have demolished the building. “We have raised this issue with the relevant officials, but to no avail,” he said. He said the chief minister should take notice of the issue and ensure early release of funds for the early completion of reconstruction.