Malakand : [Mansoor Ahmad District Coordinator ReNews Pakistan] Work is underway on the Tourist Sitting and Viewpoint near Malakand Tunnel as part of the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa government’s ongoing initiatives to promote tourism in the region. Deputy Commissioner Malakand Muhammad Fayaz Khan Sherpao visited the project site and conducted a detailed review of the ongoing development work, construction progress and the quality of materials being used. Speaking on the occasion, the deputy commissioner said such projects are highly important for promoting tourism and providing better facilities to travelers. He directed the relevant departments and contractors to ensure the early completion of the project in accordance with the required standards, adding that no compromise would be made on construction quality. Muhammad Fayaz Khan Sherpao said the completion of the Tourist Viewpoint would provide tourists, families and travelers passing through Malakand Division with safe and improved facilities for rest, seating and enjoying the natural scenery. He said the district administration would continue practical measures for improving tourist sites, enhancing public facilities and beautifying the area.

Malakand: [Mansoor Ahmad District Coordinator ReNews Pakistan] The real estate market in district Malakand is witnessing a growing shift away from paper files toward on ground properties with clear ownership status. Buyers and long term investors are increasingly preferring properties with legally verified documents and existing basic facilities. According to local market sources, real estate activity is gradually stabilizing in key areas, including Batkhela and Thana. In particular, the residential zone located behind the local hospital in Batkhela has become a focus of buyer interest, where notable activity is being observed in the sale and purchase of plots. As per the latest market update, residential plots measuring 6.66 marla, approximately 1,800 square feet, near Batkhela Hospital are available at around Rs280 per square foot. The availability of basic utilities such as electricity, gas and water is being cited as a major factor behind buyer confidence in the area. Experts say the Swat Motorway and improved road infrastructure have also had a positive impact on Malakand’s property market. Better travel facilities, reduced freight costs and easier access to commercial centers have increased the economic value of both residential and commercial properties. Meanwhile, the use of digital platforms for local property information and deals is also rising rapidly. Dealers, property owners and buyers are using Facebook groups such as “Thana Property Buy and Sell” and “Swat Malakand Property” to establish direct contact, making the buying and selling process relatively easier and faster. Local real estate circles believe that if focus remains on legal documentation, transparent dealing and basic facilities, Malakand’s property market could become more stable in the coming days.

Malakand: [Mansoor Ahmad District Coordinator ReNews Pakistan] The real estate market in Malakand District is expanding rapidly, driven by affordable entry rates in developing hubs and the launch of organized housing schemes near major educational and transport corridors. Market activity is heavily concentrated around the University of Malakand (UOM) area and the strategic M1-Swat Motorway corridor. A major highlight in the region is Chakdara University Town, an NOC-approved project where developers have officially opened pre-booking and plot acquisitions for 5 and 6 Marla residential cuts. Due to its legal clearance and planned infrastructure, the project is drawing significant attention from both local buyers and overseas investors. Meanwhile, in Chakdara (Amirabad), constructed 5-Marla houses near the university remain highly sought after, serving as prime investment vehicles for student rentals and academic staff. In Batkhela, affordable residential options continue to thrive, with developing plots trading at highly competitive rates starting as low as PKR 200 per square foot. In addition to residential growth, a sharp rise in commercial demand has been recorded. Investors are actively targeting smaller 2.66 Marla commercial chunks along main arteries to capitalize on the region's booming tourism and trade sectors, fueled by the Swat Motorway connectivity.