Government to Establish First Provincial Tourism Authority
LAHORE: The Punjab government has announced a comprehensive tourism development strategy for the fiscal year 2026-27, aiming to transform the province into a leading tourism destination through large-scale investments, heritage conservation projects and eco-tourism initiatives.
According to budget documents, the government will establish Punjab’s first-ever Tourism Authority to regulate, promote and develop the tourism sector through a unified institutional framework. Officials said the authority will coordinate tourism policies, attract investment and strengthen the province’s tourism infrastructure.
The government expects the initiative to generate annual economic activity worth approximately Rs450 billion while attracting between 18 million and 30 million tourists in the coming years.
Furthermore, authorities plan to develop eight tourism circuits across Punjab and train 1,000 young people through a dedicated tourism internship programme aimed at creating employment opportunities and strengthening the sector’s workforce.
Infrastructure and Eco-Tourism Projects Receive Significant Funding
The provincial government has allocated Rs1 billion for the upgradation of tourist destinations in Chakwal, Rajanpur, Kasur and Murree. In addition, tourism projects in Changa Manga and Chashma are being implemented at a combined cost of Rs8.71 billion.
Officials noted that Rs1.2 billion has been earmarked specifically for eco-tourism initiatives designed to preserve natural habitats while promoting sustainable tourism growth.
Meanwhile, development work on the Bansara Gali Zoological Garden in Murree continues, with the project carrying a total cost of Rs3.92 billion. The government has proposed an additional Rs600 million allocation for the project during the next fiscal year.
Public and Private Sectors to Drive Tourism Growth
The tourism strategy aims to mobilise total investment of up to Rs471 billion, including Rs171 billion in public funding and Rs300 billion from private investors.
Additionally, the government plans to implement the Safari Zoo Lahore Master Plan at an estimated cost of Rs7 billion as part of broader efforts to enhance recreational and cultural attractions across Punjab.
Officials believe the ambitious plan will strengthen tourism, create jobs, preserve heritage sites and contribute significantly to long-term economic growth throughout the province.
