- Khyber Pakhtunkhwa’s Minister for Social Welfare, Syed Qasim Ali Shah, reopened the closed park to ensure unrestricted access for women, introducing free entry to eliminate financial barriers and encourage inclusivity for women across all income groups.
- During a thorough inspection, the minister directed improvements in cleanliness, security, and amenities. Plans for an exclusive women’s festival further highlight efforts to create safe, engaging recreational spaces for women.
- These initiatives aim to improve women’s mental health and foster a culture of inclusivity by prioritizing gender-sensitive public spaces, earning praise from advocacy groups for addressing the recreational and social needs of women in the region.
In a progressive step toward enhancing women-centric recreational facilities, the Shalimar Garden Women’s Park in Peshawar has been reopened under the directives of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa’s Minister for Social Welfare, Syed Qasim Ali Shah. The minister was on a routine visit, where he discovered the park closed and issued immediate orders to reopen it, ensuring women in the region could access the facility without restrictions. The Park was once used by women for recreational purposes but had been closed due to lack of
Free Entry Initiative Taken By Minister
As part of the reopening initiative, banners announcing free entry to the park have been placed outside the park premises. This measure, directed by Syed Qasim Ali Shah, aims to eliminate financial constraints and encourage greater footfall, offering a welcoming environment for women to unwind and enjoy their leisure time. Free entry to the park also guarantees a place for women from all income groups.
Park Conditions Under Review
Accompanied by the Director General of Metropolitan Peshawar, Syed Qasim Ali Shah conducted a thorough inspection of the park. He received a detailed briefing on its existing conditions and the amenities available to visitors. Emphasizing the importance of visitor experience, he instructed authorities to prioritize improvements in cleanliness, enhance security measures, and upgrade basic facilities to create a more enjoyable environment.
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Furthering efforts to promote recreational opportunities for women, the minister revealed plans for an exclusive women’s festival. The event is envisioned as a celebration of community and leisure. This action highlights the government’s commitment to providing safe and inclusive public spaces for women across the region.
Experts believe such initiatives can contribute to improving mental health and overall well-being, particularly in urban settings where public spaces are often dominated by male visitors. Such initiatives are much needed at a time when poor mental health is rampant in women. By focusing on creating women-friendly environments, the government is not only addressing recreational needs but also fostering a culture of inclusivity and mutual respect.
Government Commitment to Women’s Well-Being
The reopening of the park and the announcement of the festival reflect a broader strategy to prioritize women’s well-being in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa. These initiatives seek to establish secure and accessible spaces where women can relax, socialize, and engage in recreational activities, fostering a sense of community and empowerment.
The move has been lauded by women’s advocacy groups, who see it as a step in the right direction for creating gender-sensitive public spaces. The Shalimar Garden Women’s Park reopening, coupled with future plans, signals a commitment to enhancing the quality of life for women in Peshawar and beyond.
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