The Second Edition of Tour de Khunjerab 2019, an International Cycle Race, has come to an end in Hunza, a mountainous valley in the Gilgit-Baltistan region, the Dispatch News Desk (DND) news agency reported.
The event was organized by the Government of Gilgit-Baltistan in collaboration with the Pakistan Cycling Federation, and in which national and international cyclists participate.
The President of Pakistan Dr Arif Alvi was the chief guest of the closing ceremony. The Governor Gilgit Baltistan, Chief Secretary Gilgit Baltistan, politicians and senior government officials were also present at the closing ceremony.
While addressing the winners, runner up and the participants, the president appreciated the sportsman spirit of the cyclists who made it possible to reach the Khunjrab top – Pak-China border at 18000 feet. He added that it’s one of the unique kind of an experience where the cyclists begin the race from 4000 feet and move up to the high altitude of 18000 feet.
While addressing on the occasion, the president appreciated the Gilgit-Baltistan government for introducing Plastic Free Campaign in the District Hunza which is the first of its kind initiative in the whole Country. He urged the incoming tourists to respect and show regard to the rule of the land and help the local community in preserving the natural beauty of the area.
Furthermore, the president said that this practice will help to promote environment friendly initiatives in the Country. In addition to this, the president showed concern regarding the recent visuals of litter and garbage at the base camp of K2, and asked the mountaineers to practice and promote environmental friendly tourism in the high altitude areas.
The president also said that the federal government has specially focused on the promotion of tourism in the country. He said that Prime Minister Imran Khan has always taken keen interest in the promotion of unexplored tourists’ destinations in the country. He said that over the last few years the influx of tourists has also increased due to the improved security condition in the country.
The president appreciated the efforts of the Gilgit-Baltistan government for introducing these kind of programs and events which attract large number of national and foreign tourists.
