Operation “Zarb-e-Azb” likely to affect tourism in Gilgit-Baltistan
Gilgit, Jun3 16: 2014 seems to be another bad year for tourism in Gilgit-Baltistan, where a large segment of the population lives off the revenues generated by tourism related economy.
The starting of the operation Zarb-e-Azb in the middle of June is likely to have serious repurcussions for international tourism in the Gilgit-Baltistan region. In the wake of travel advisories issued by foreign missions after the brazen attack on the Karachi airport, the chances of international visitors coming to Pakistan had already thinned.
The situation is likely to get even more depressing after a threat issued to MNCs and other international organiztions by the Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan.
It is pertinent to note that last year the prospects of tourism had dwindled after the attack on toruists near the base camp of Nanga Parbat, which led to the death of 10 foreigners and one Pakistani national.
The law and order situation in Gilgit-Baltistan had improved signficantly as a result of the efforts of Awami Action Committee. However, the prospect of better tourism this year have been hit by operation Zarb-e-Azb.
