LAHORE: To invigorate tourism and safeguard the cultural legacy of the province, the Punjab government has decided to create the Punjab Tourism and Heritage Authority under a new legislative framework. This move aims to foster sustainable tourism development and cultural preservation in the region.
The proposed Punjab Tourism and Heritage Authority Act 2025 will soon be introduced in the Punjab Assembly. Under this legislation, the Chief Minister will serve as the Chairperson of the Authority, with the Tourism Minister acting as Vice Chairperson. Key departmental secretaries from Tourism, Finance, and Planning & Development will serve as core members of the Authority.
The law grants the Authority the authority to develop policies and strategies to enhance tourism and protect heritage sites. It will collaborate with relevant agencies to identify eco-friendly tourist destinations, create digital records of sites, and develop comprehensive maps for visitors. The Authority will also set standards and codes of conduct for tourism activities.
In addition, the Authority will organize seminars and international tourism promotion events, enforce regulations through fines, and promote public-private partnerships to attract investment. It will have the power to form inspection teams, address illegal encroachments on tourist sites, and ensure sustainable tourism practices.
A Director General will oversee the day-to-day operations as the Chief Executive Officer, with the authority to approve its budget. The Auditor General will conduct its financial audits.
Following its presentation in the Assembly, the bill will undergo a two-month review by the relevant standing committee. Upon approval, it will be forwarded to the Governor of Punjab for formal assent.
