MANSEHRA: The Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Wildlife Department has started relocating shops and restaurants constructed in an abrupt and unplanned manner at Saiful Muluk Lake to preserve its natural beauty and ecology. "We, the Wildlife Department, have already taken the initiative to keep this heavenly place on earth free from pollution and restore its natural essence, which has been plagued by the construction of shops and restaurants along one side of the lake," Sub-Divisional Wildlife Officer Saiful Muluk National Park Abdul Rashid Tanoli told reporters on Friday.

He said that, under the strategy devised for the preservation of Saiful Muluk Lake, temporary shops and eateries were being constructed at a service area one kilometre away from the lake and existing structures. "We are going to regularise the temporary shops and eateries and relocate them to state-of-the-art structures in the new service area, and members of the indigenous community will also be provided with licences to operate in accordance with the standard operating procedures prescribed for such recreational destinations," said the official.

He said that during the peak tourist season, hundreds of four-wheelers carrying visitors made round trips to the lake and were parked along its edges, adversely affecting its natural beauty. "We have also cleared the parking area, which will be located at a distance of one kilometre from the lake, and tracks for tourists to walk around the lake are also being built, along with dozens of shelters to protect them from the sun and rain," Tanoli went on to add.

The SDFO said a green belt would be developed at the locations from where shops and eateries were being relocated. "We have completed more than 50 per cent of the plan, and the remaining work is also being finalised provided the weather remains favourable," said Tanoli.

Local residents and environmental experts have appreciated the step taken by the wildlife department, expressing hope that it would bring a positive change to the fragile ecosystem of the region. The authorities have urged tourists and visitors to cooperate with the administration in maintaining cleanliness and following the newly established rules.