The once enchanting Ayubia Valley in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa’s Galiat region has sadly lost its allure following the closure of its iconic chairlift, leaving tourists from both Pakistan and abroad deprived of its scenic delights.
Renowned for its breathtaking natural beauty and idyllic weather, the valley boasted a chairlift installed in 1965 under the directive of then-President Ayub Khan. However, this beloved attraction, which had exceeded its intended operational lifespan by over 27 years, was forced to cease operations in 2021 due to its deteriorating condition.
A spokesperson for the private company managing the chairlift revealed that they had secured a contract three years prior from the Galiat Development Authority to install a modern replacement. Regrettably, the project has encountered delays as it awaits necessary approvals from all pertinent authorities.
Numerous disappointed tourists voiced their dismay, having journeyed to the valley expressly to experience the thrill of the chairlift, only to find it closed, leaving them profoundly disheartened.
In response to the outcry, the Galiat Development Authority’s Forest and Wildlife Department has reassured the public that they are diligently addressing legal hurdles to expedite the restoration of the chairlift. Their aim is to promptly alleviate the disappointment felt by visitors and revive the valley’s appeal as a premier tourist destination.
As the closure of the chairlift casts a shadow over Ayubia Valley’s allure, locals and businesses reliant on tourism are feeling the impact. The once vibrant economy fueled by tourist visits now faces uncertainty, with livelihoods hanging in the balance. Hotels, restaurants, and souvenir shops that once thrived on the influx of visitors are now struggling to stay afloat.
Moreover, the closure of the chairlift not only affects tourism but also undermines the region’s cultural and historical significance. The chairlift, a symbol of President Ayub Khan’s vision for development, holds sentimental value for locals and serves as a reminder of the valley’s rich heritage.
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