The government is spending Rs 19.750 million on development of tourism sector in Balochistan, official sources told APP on Sunday. Rs 12.012 million have already been spent on construction of Hut at Hanna lake a suburb of the provincial capital.
Besides, the government is also spending millions of rupees for preservation of cultural heritages in the province to attract tourists.
In this regard, Rs 61.498 million have been allocated for construction of two cultural complexes in Gwadar and Ormara, out of which Rs 23 million had already been spent.
"With the completion of Gwadar Port the province will be a transit route to Central Asia, Middle East and South-East Asia and the natural beauty of province will attract tourists."
The government has declared the year 2006 as 'Tourism Year' aimed at promoting the image of Pakistan favourable for tourists.
The government is promoting tourism sector, which will pave way to enhance better relations and understanding with the people of other countries. It will not only make possible people to people contact, which promotes foreign relations, but also generates revenue for the development of the country.
The province has colossal potential in tourism and there are great investment opportunities in this sector, sources explained.
Referring to the archeological site of Mahargarh sources said Balochistan is the forerunner of Civilization.
The 11000 years old Mahargarh signifies the importance of the province for the sector. Besides, the province has distinctive tourist attractions such as coastal highway linkages, beaches, religious sites, Juniper forest in Ziarat valley, Khojak Tunnel and several other recreationary and monumental places.
The province has international significance for tourism that possesses natural beauty, cultural heritage and ancient civilisation.