Islamabad : Secretary of Tourism, Mr. Asif Ullah Khan, announced this during a press conference along with Provincial Minister for Tourism Ghulam Mohammad, Commissioner Baltistan, and other officials and partners.The fifth edition of Sarfaranga Cold Desert Rally will be held in District Shighar starting from the 6th until the 8th of October 2023. The title song “Sarfaranga Sarfaranga Lo Phir Sey Aaya Hay – Rang Branga Sarfaranga Her Dil Pe Chaaya Hay” was launched. The melodious song has been sung by renown local singer Salman Paras and music has been composed by Ali Mustafa.Mr. Asif Ullah Khan, Secretary of Tourism and Sports in Gilgit Baltistan, emphasizing that the rally would not just unveil the mesmerizing beauty of Baltistan but also beckon local and international enthusiasts, even in the winter chill.He said the track length has been increased to 80 km, and 125 racers are expected to participate in the event this year.Beyond the allure of the rugged terrain, the Sarfaranga Cold Desert Rally represents more than just a thrilling ride; it’s a gateway to a world of adventure, thrill, and excitement. The chosen terrain, Sarfaranga desert, stands tall as one of Earth’s highest and most challenging cold deserts, making it an ideal playground for extreme sports aficionados.Asifullah Khan underlined that this rally is more than an adventure; it’s an opportunity for youth to break free from the monotony of daily life and engage in healthy, adventurous pursuits. It serves as a platform for the youth to rediscover and explore their untapped potentials and energy. Amidst the vast cold desert, participants can expect to navigate bumpy roads, leading them to the heart of an unparalleled excitement.However, what truly sets the Sarfaranga Cold Desert Rally apart is its unwavering commitment to preserving the natural environment. Asifullah Khan unveiled the rally’s environmental policy, emphasizing their dedication to minimizing the event’s ecological footprint. The policy revolves around responsible actions and commitments to ensure the rally’s impact on the environment is as minimal as possible.He added that last year the event had a budget of 5.5 crore, and this year, the department has requested 4 crore from the government.Sunil Sarfraz Manj, founder of Pak Wells, said that car racing enthusiasts and other tourists wait all year to participate in the Sarfa Ranga Cold Desert Rally. The hospitality of the people of Baltistan and the unique beauty and culture of the region add to the enjoyment of this event. This event will pave the way for international car racing competitions in Pakistan.Provincial Minister for Tourism Ghulam Mohammad said that the Sarfa Ranga Cold Desert Rally will soon gain the status of a unique car race event at the global level and will attract the attention of adventure enthusiasts and fans from all over the world and nationally and internationally including Gilgit-Baltistan. Positive identity of Pakistan will be highlighted.Around 100 national racers under different catagories will participate in the Sarfaranga Cold Desert Rally. The event is being organized by Tourism Department GB in partnership with Pak Wheels. The event will also have Polo and Zakh compititions and other cultural and sports events and much more.With a focus on prioritizing walking, cycling, and shared transportation, Sarfaranga’s Travel Policy aims to significantly reduce the number of vehicles used, thereby reducing the rally’s overall environmental impact. This policy will be reviewed annually to ensure its effectiveness and relevance in the context of evolving environmental challenges.PakWheels is the technical partner, while sponsors like Serena, AKRSP, and others are supporting the event, he said.Deputy Commissioner Shigar said the event’s preparation is underway, and efforts are being made to involve the local community for maximum benefit.
