Islamabad, July 10, 2025: In a surprising development, the government has handed over 45 state-owned guest houses in Gilgit-Baltistan to the Green Tourism Company and the Special Investment Facilitation Council (SIFC).
This move, aimed at promoting eco-tourism and increasing investment in the region, was disclosed during a briefing to the National Assembly’s Standing Committee on Inter-Provincial Coordination.
However, the decision has sparked controversy among lawmakers. Member of the National Assembly (MNA), Munazza Hassan, strongly questioned the legal framework behind this handover. She demanded that the Secretary of Inter-Provincial Coordination provide complete details regarding the transfer, including the terms and legal justification.
“This raises serious concerns,” Munazza remarked, “Under what law were all the guest houses given to Green Tourism Company without parliamentary oversight?”
The move is part of Pakistan’s broader initiative to open its scenic northern areas to sustainable tourism and private sector management. But transparency and legal compliance remain under scrutiny as elected representatives push for accountability.
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As Gilgit-Baltistan continues to attract both local and international tourists, the government’s collaboration with Green Tourism and SIFC could potentially uplift regional tourism infrastructure. Yet, critics argue that such decisions must involve proper legislation, public consultation, and transparency to avoid future backlash.
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This issue is expected to be taken up further in upcoming committee sessions, as stakeholders await clarity on the selection criteria, revenue-sharing model, and environmental safeguards.
