According to the PoGB tourism department, no foreign climbers or trekkers visited the region this winter. No foreign expeditions or trekking groups were granted permits during the winter expedition season, which generally runs from November to February.
Rising royalty and mountaineering fees in Pakistan-occupied Gilgit-Baltistan (PoGB) have alarmed tour operators, with many fearing the collapse of the region's adventure tourism sector.
Residents have urged authorities to ensure the project is completed as per the original design, to avoid further issues and ensure the long-term success of the Winter Sports Ground.
Asif Gohar, a restaurant owner in the region, highlighted the severe impact of dilapidated roads, inadequate transportation, and poor network connectivity on tourism.