BAHAWALPUR: The caretaker government of Punjab has granted in-principle approval for a 7-day South Punjab Mela to be held in Bahawalpur, aiming to boost tourism and showcase the region’s vibrant culture. The decision came during a special meeting chaired by Chief Minister Mohsin Naqvi on Thursday, where arrangements for the upcoming 19th Cholistan Desert Rally were also reviewed.
The South Punjab Mela, a first-of-its-kind event, is expected to attract large crowds and highlight the rich heritage, crafts, and traditions of the southern region. The exact dates and details are yet to be finalized, but the in-principle approval indicates the government’s commitment to promoting tourism and cultural exchange in the area.
Meanwhile, the meeting also focused on ensuring a successful Cholistan Desert Rally, considered the biggest jeep rally in Punjab. Provincial Secretary Tourism Raja Jahangir Anwar presented a detailed briefing, outlining plans to attract multinational companies as official partners and leverage the event to showcase the unique landscape and adventure potential of Cholistan.
The Chief Minister emphasized the need for robust traffic management measures during the rally to ensure the safety and convenience of participants and spectators. He also directed the Tourism Department to procure tents for the event, potentially paving the way for the establishment of a tent hotel in Cholistan, a move that could further boost tourism infrastructure in the region.
Other officials including Provincial Minister Aamir Mir, Secretary P&D, MDT TDCP, and GM Operations TDCP also participated in the meeting, contributing to the discussions and ensuring smooth planning for both the South Punjab Mela and the Cholistan Desert Rally.
The initiatives taken by the caretaker government signal a renewed focus on promoting tourism and cultural events in Punjab, with Bahawalpur and Cholistan emerging as key destinations for attracting local and international visitors. The success of these events is expected to not only revive the tourism industry but also create new economic opportunities for the region.
