LAHORE: Punjab Chief Minister Sardar Usman Buzdar on Monday inaugurated the Government House Murree for the general public.
Addressing the ceremony, he said that the facility of staying could be availed by depositing dues adding that inauguration of this boutique heritage resort for the people was a wonderful occasion. Transformation of government buildings into rest houses is the start of eliminating VIP culture while Prime Minister Imran Khan has set an example of austerity by staying at his home.
He said that the promotion of tourism was a priority agenda of the PTI government and regretted that this sector was badly ignored in the past.
The CM said that decision has been made to use government buildings of historical importance for tourism purposes and the Government House Murree has been offered for unofficial use for the first time, he added. He further told that the golden jubilee of this historic building was held 15 years ago and several international personalities have stayed in this majestic building. It is an honour to stay in such a magnificent building and the government does not want to limit this honour to its dignitaries only.
He said that 177 rest houses and guest houses have been opened in the province by the Punjab government as the government wants to use all available opportunities for the promotion of tourism as an industry. He said that the tourist spots of far-flung areas including that of southern Punjab are being developed and added that tourism development cooperation’s resorts are being renovated in DG Khan.
He said that camping sites, safari and paragliding events will be held to promote tourism and heritage markets will also be set up to promote the local culture.
He said that the double-decker buses will be run soon in Multan and DG Khan and hoped that a large number of local and foreign tourists will be attracted through such initiatives to earn foreign exchange. This would also create employment opportunities for the local population, he added.