Peshawar , 19 September 2011 , Tourism Corporation has contacted with Pakistan Railways to start steam safari train between the provincial capital and Attock Khurd for the local and foreign tourists to promote tourism in the province and build a soft image of the militancy-hit region, says a press release.
The release added that the corporation has sent a letter to Secretary Railways Javed Iqbal to revive the tourist attraction in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa which will be linked up with Abaseen Ferry Service sailing between tourist resort Kund and Attock in Indus River.
The release added that the century-old antiquated steam locomotive belonging to Pakistan Railways was not only one of the best treasured national heritage assets but also a tourist attraction of international fame which used to run through Khyber Pass until recently.
TCKP has sought the revival of the steam safari train on an alternate route – Peshawar to Attock Khurd, saying that under the present challenging times it would not only reassure the safety of public at large but also improve the image of Pakistan Railways and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa globally.
TCKP is fully committed to reviving this fabulous vintage steam train with Sehrai Rail Tours and Pakistan Railways, the release added.
Given the significance of reviving this regional icon which ought to be proudly showcased to the outside world, the corporation has decided to bear the entire rental expenses and to subsidise the cost of the passenger ticket initially to encourage and promote domestic tourism on no-profit basis.
In addition, this move would also project the Attock Khurd Railway Heritage Resort as a new destination on the tourist map of the province in a befitting manner, the release added.
The corporation, besides bearing all the expenses of running of the train would also refurbish, brand and tastefully decorate the parlour VIP coach and two bogies in a vintage theme. It may be mentioned that the Khyber steam safari train was earlier running on the ancient British era railway track between Peshawar and Landikotal.
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