Infrastructural Neglect Hampers Tourism Potential of Thorsay Bilamik Valley

Thorsay Bilamik Valley in Pakistan-occupied Gilgit-Baltistan faces significant infrastructural challenges, including poor roads, lack of mobile networks, insufficient healthcare, and inadequate educational facilities, affecting the residents and hindering its potential as a tourist spot.

In the Thorsay Bilamik Valley of Pakistan-occupied Gilgit-Baltistan, severe infrastructural issues due to administrative neglect are stifling its potential as a tourist destination, Skardu TV reported. Residents struggle with various problems, such as the absence of mobile network coverage, deteriorating road conditions, insufficient healthcare infrastructure, and a lack of educational institutions.

Local resident Ehsaan Ali Shah voiced his frustration, highlighting the unending woes faced by the community. 'The roads are in disrepair, we lack mobile network services, and there are no facilities for education or healthcare. Despite raising these concerns, the administration remains silent and unresponsive,' he said. Shah noted that although ministers had promised to build guest houses in the valley, nothing has materialised. A local student echoed similar concerns, pointing out that the sole middle school is inadequate for the growing number of students.

The student also mentioned that many students leave home for better education, leaving their families without support. Women in labour often travel dangerous roads to reach medical facilities, and some babies are born during these perilous journeys. Pilgrims visiting during Muharram have likewise faced difficulties, spending extra hours climbing poorly maintained roads.

One traveller described the trip as challenging due to poor road conditions, inadequate street signs, and disorientation. Travellers reported starting their journey late at night from Skardu and reaching the mountain base, only to be warned by locals about the neglected roads. Despite road construction contracts awarded years ago, no progress has been made, affecting the elderly, children, and women during their prayers and pilgrimage.

After an arduous eight-hour climb, travellers found no resting facilities and had to settle on uncomfortable rocks. Despite numerous complaints to local authorities, no action has been taken to address these issues. (ANI)

(With inputs from agencies.)