Haripur, Pakistan — October 6, 2026 — Supporters of a separate Hazara province are seeking its creation on administrative rather than linguistic grounds, Hazara province advocate Shehzad Aziz said during a convention in Haripur, arguing that better governance and more effective use of local resources could support economic development across the region.
Speaking to senior journalist Waqar Ali on the sidelines of the convention, Aziz said the demand for a separate Hazara province was not directed against any ethnic group, language or other part of the province.
He said Hazara has significant natural, mineral, water and tourism resources that could contribute to broader economic development if they were managed through effective planning and local oversight.
Aziz highlighted major hydropower projects in the region, including Tarbela Dam, Suki Kinari and Dasu Dam. He said the area should receive a fair share of net hydel profits generated from projects located in the region, with those resources invested in local development.
He also pointed to mineral resources in the mountains of Hazara, including deposits of potassium and iron as well as other minerals and valuable metals. According to Aziz, transparent and scientific exploration and development of these resources could create employment opportunities and strengthen the regional economy.
Tourism Seen as Major Economic Opportunity
Aziz said Hazara also has considerable tourism potential, citing areas including Mansehra, Kaghan, Naran, Balakot, Shogran, Abbottabad, Galiyat, Nathia Gali, Battagram and Torghar.
The region’s mountains, lakes, forests, natural landscapes and historical sites could attract more domestic and international visitors, he said.
Aziz argued that developing tourism infrastructure could create employment across hospitality, transportation, tourism services, handicrafts and the food industry. He called for improved roads, modern tourist facilities, stronger infrastructure and an integrated tourism policy to support the sector.
He said the demand for a Hazara province was primarily linked to administrative efficiency, fair resource allocation, economic development and improved delivery of basic public services.
Focus on Local Governance
According to Aziz, granting Hazara separate provincial administrative status could allow for more effective local planning, management and monitoring of resources.
He said such an arrangement could open new opportunities in sectors including education, healthcare, infrastructure, employment, industry, mining and tourism.
Aziz also said supporters of the Hazara province movement would continue their campaign through constitutional, democratic and peaceful means. He called on political, social, business and public stakeholders to contribute to the effort.
He urged the government to seriously consider the demand for a separate Hazara province and examine ways to make more effective use of the region’s natural and economic resources.
Why the Hazara Province Demand Matters
The debate over a separate Hazara province is closely connected to questions of administrative governance, resource management and regional development. Aziz’s remarks frame the demand as an effort to improve local planning and public service delivery rather than as a movement based on language or ethnic identity.
produced by mukarram ahmed
