Faiza Tehseen

Jiwani, a town and commercial port located on the Makran coast in the Gwadar District of Balochistan province, requires better infrastructure to increase the tourist footfall, reports WealthPK.

Developing the area will provide local communities with sustainable livelihood, said Dawood Tareen, Director of Culture and Focal Person for the Balochistan Tourism Department, while talking to WealthPK. “Despite its huge potential for tourism activities, Jiwani remains largely unexplored due to its largely insufficient infrastructure. Basic infrastructure, including roads, clean drinking water, sewage system, hospitality services, recreational points, and accessibility, is crucial to develop the area.

A coordinated approach based on public-private partnership is crucial to unlocking the full potential of the area,” he said. Talking about the historic significance of Jiwani, he said that during British rule, a lighthouse had been constructed at Jiwani to guide the ships through the Arabian Sea waters. The town is linked to the ancient maritime trade routes connecting the Indian sub-continent with the Arabian Peninsula. This situation makes Jiwani a unique part of Pakistan’s maritime heritage.  

During World War II, Jiwani served as a refueling point for Allied aircraft arriving from Iran. The town still preserves the remnants of the wartime legacy. The water system developed in those days, now abandoned, is a marvel majorly used to store the rain water. Sharing the nearby tourist destinations, he said, “The mesmerizing Hingol National Park is also the best tourist attraction. From desert to coastal environment, it is a unique blend of different eco-systems, appealing to nature lovers, and adventurers.

Jiwani is a wonderful place for eco-lovers due to its diverse bird population, extensive mangrove forests, marine eco-system, and beautiful coastline.” Jivani is also the nesting ground for the critically endangered Olive Ridley and Green sea turtles. It is also a perfect destination for a number of water-based activities, including scuba diving, snorkeling, and beach sports. Another tourist spot and camping site is ‘Dran’ where families and visitors sometimes camp for days.

The Balochistan Tourism Department focal person said the promotion of Jiwani as a tourist hot spot will significantly improve both local and national economies. Currently, the area’s economy is dependent on fishing and small scale trade, but the promotion of tourism can diversify its revenue streams. Tourism-based infrastructure development, promotion of local crafts, and support for the small businesses can generate new employment opportunities here.

Talking to WealthPK about the promotion of Jiwani as a popular tourist destination at both national and international levels, Managing Director Sindh Tourism Development Corporation (STDC) Syed Fayaz Ali Shah said, “It is a fact that proper promotion of Jiwani as a tourist destination will enhance investment in local businesses.” Conducting cultural events, traditional music concerts, and local festivals will also increase the tourist footfall and boost the local economy.

This will also contribute to cultural preservation and understanding of the rich cultural heritage of Balochistan. He said, “Responsible tourism practices are necessary to conserve the area’s natural beauty. The rich traditional culture of fishing communities is also worthy of experience.

The coastal wetlands here attract a variety of migratory birds, making Jiwani a prime location for bird watching.” The locals’ traditional hospitality is remarkable, which can be made better with little training. As Jiwani is a potential tourist spot, a developed infrastructure is necessary to increase the tourist footfall here, Fayaz added.

Credit: INP-WealthPk