The Pakistan Tourism Development Corporation (PTDC) has unveiled an ambitious project to enhance tourism in Islamabad with the launch of a sightseeing double-decker bus service. The initiative, announced by PTDC Managing Director Aftab ur Rehman Rana during a briefing with key tourism stakeholders, is set to begin in January 2025.
The meeting, attended by prominent figures such as Naveed Anjum, Manager of the Tourism Development Corporation of Punjab (TDCP), Mukhtar Ali, Manager of TICs, and Sadia Nauman, Manager of P&P at PTDC, also included representatives from Islamabad’s leading hotels.
The Islamabad Sightseeing Double-Decker Bus Service, a joint venture between PTDC and TDCP, aims to provide tourists with a modern and eco-friendly way to explore the capital city.
The service will feature guided tours operating twice daily, with convenient pick-and-drop facilities at major hotels. The initiative is designed to showcase Islamabad’s landmarks and tourist attractions, offering visitors a unique and enjoyable experience.
During the briefing, Mr. Rana emphasized the government’s commitment to developing tourism as a key driver of economic growth. He described the project as a significant step toward positioning Islamabad as a premier destination for both domestic and international travelers.
In its second phase, the project will introduce weekend sightseeing trips to nearby historical and cultural sites. Destinations such as Taxila, Rohtas Fort, Katas Raj, Kallar Kahar, Khewra Salt Mines, Takht-e-Bahi, Murree, Patriata, and Peshawar will be included in these tours. PTDC plans to collaborate with private sector partners to expand the scope of tourism in the region.
MRana highlighted that the double-decker bus service is part of an integrated tourism plan developed by PTDC to promote Islamabad as a gateway for travelers exploring Pakistan. He expressed confidence that the initiative would significantly enhance the city’s appeal, providing a boost to the local tourism industry and contributing to the country’s economic growth.
