I visit GB quite regularly, given its relentless charm, its unending beauty and its irresistible appeal. From fables to scenery to food to people, this vast tapestry of nature is a bountiful part of lovely Pakistan, waiting to be fully explored and optimally experienced, in all seasons.

The visit past week, however, spotlighted certain areas that need urgent attention. Traffic in Gilgit City that is sprawling in all directions is bad, to say it nicely. During school rush, getting around even in this off-peak tourist season is difficult. Broken roads, absent traffic cops and congestion because of the smuggled NCP (non-custom paid) vehicles make road travel and commute a nightmare. The official company contracted for laying sewerage line along the main road in the City was busy digging the recently carpeted road(s) through the centre, having done it elsewhere in the City.

It was pointed out that sewerage lines and storm drains are laid either under the sidewalk/footpath or along the edge of the roads, to avoid re-digging every time there is a blockage. Some rocket science here, which evades common sense.

During a night stroll in Karimabad/Hunza's famous semi-circle bazar in subzero temperature after some 35 years, it was shocking to see how time stood still all these years, leaving no marks of visible development and improvements other than congestion, more broken roads, dirt and filth.

The past tourist season was bad for GB, because access to this beautiful wilderness remains limited, arduous and dangerous. After phasing out the Fokker, PIA operates its very limited fleet (perhaps........

© The Express Tribune