Latest news with #MetrixPakistan
Express Tribune
09-06-2025
- Express Tribune
Thousands of tourists flock to Jab Valley
In a striking display of Pakistan's growing eco-tourism potential, thousands of tourists from across the country flocked to Jab Valley in Haripur during the Eid holidays, turning the once-obscure locale into one of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa's most sought-after destinations. Located approximately 80 kilometres from Islamabad and 170 kilometres from Peshawar, Jab Valley has quietly evolved into a nature lover's haven, home to a chain of eight waterfalls that cascade in succession through forested cliffs. The valley lies just a short drive from Khanpur Dam, making it a convenient addition to traditional tourist itineraries. The waterfalls, some plunging from heights of up to 200 metres, were first discovered and documented in 2021 by Hassan Nisar, a YouTuber and founder of Metrix Pakistan. His efforts not only brought the natural beauty of Jab Valley to the forefront but also helped promote the region nationally and internationally through digital media. The viral videos and widespread coverage that followed played a central role in establishing Jab Valley as a new hub for eco-tourism. "I still remember hiking into the valley for the first time and hearing the roar of the waterfalls echoing through the cliffs. I knew instantly that the world needed to see this," said Nisar, smiling as he watched families pose for photos near the cascading waters. "Today, seeing so many people here appreciating the natural beauty of this place fills me with pride. This is exactly what I dreamed of - tourism that uplifts communities and brings people closer to nature." He added that Jab Valley now needs targeted government investment and infrastructure development. "With official support, this place can become a signature site of Pakistan's tourism in the new era - a model for sustainable, community-led and eco-friendly travel." "I came here with my friends from Lahore after seeing a video online. It's nothing like Murree or the usual tourist spots. It's peaceful and untouched," said Areeba Malik, a visitor from Punjab. Jab Valley's charm lies in its resistance to commercial trappings. With no mega resorts, plastic waste or urban noise, it offers a rare sensory retreat: the gushing of the waterfalls, the call of native birds and the whisper of the wind through towering pine trees and centuries-old wild olive groves, known locally as zaitoon. The ecological diversity of the region is remarkable. Migratory birds, porcupines, and foxes roam freely, while local flora includes medicinal plants long used by villagers for traditional healing. The valley's discovery has not only enriched Pakistan's natural tourism map. It has also revived the local economy. Shoukat, a roadside daba owner in the area, credits the influx of tourists for a threefold increase in his daily earnings since 2021. "Before, I used to make around Rs400 a day. Now during peak season or Eid, I can earn up to Rs1,200. That's a big difference for someone like me," he said, flashing a grateful smile. Despite the growing footfall, infrastructure remains minimal. Access roads are unpaved in sections, and there are no formal visitor facilities beyond a few local tea stalls and makeshift seating areas. While this lack of development adds to the valley's rustic appeal, it also raises questions about sustainability. Environmentalists caution that without regulated tourism, the fragile ecosystem could suffer. "We need eco-conscious tourism, guided hikes, proper waste disposal and limited human interference," said an environmental science student from Hazara University visiting the site. For now, Jab Valley remains a rare window into what tourism in Pakistan could be: rooted in nature, sustained by communities and appreciated with reverence.
Express Tribune
02-06-2025
- Business
- Express Tribune
Haripur's youth sparks digital uplift
At only 25, Hassan Nisar emerges as one of the most prominent youth voices in Pakistan's digital transformation. PHOTO: EXPRESS A young tech leader from Haripur is spearheading a grassroots revolution in Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa, empowering thousands of young Pakistanis through education, innovation, and entrepreneurship. At only 25, Hassan Nisar has emerged as one of the most prominent youth voices in Pakistan's digital transformation. Hailing from the scenic town of Khanpur in Haripur district, Hassan is the founder of Metrix Pakistan - a non-profit organisation that has rapidly grown into a major catalyst for tech education and economic inclusion across K-P's underserved areas. Having completed his early education in Abbottabad and earned a degree in Economics from the University of Haripur, Hassan's journey reflects both a personal and professional commitment to his roots. "There's immense potential in K-P's youth - we just needed to unlock it," he shared. Launched in 2022, Metrix Pakistan was born out of a desire to bridge the digital divide. In less than three years, the initiative has brought practical training in digital skills, freelancing, and entrepreneurship to thousands of students across the province - many from remote or marginalised communities. "Our goal wasn't just to educate, but to prepare students for real-world opportunities," Hassan said. "We've trained young people to develop portfolios, work on live projects, and land internships or jobs in Pakistan and beyond." Crucially, the organisation has focused on regions often overlooked by mainstream initiatives. From Lower Dir to Mansehra, Metrix Pakistan has hosted summits and workshops in districts that rarely see such activity, creating local access to global knowledge. But Hassan's efforts extend beyond education. He's brought major global tech players into the fold, with companies like Binance, Bitget, CoinEx, and even Microsoft participating in Metrix Pakistan-led events and mentorship programmes. These collaborations have introduced emerging fields like blockchain and Web3 to youth in K-P - industries previously inaccessible to most in the region. "There was a time when the idea of global companies engaging in K-P was unthinkable. Now, they're not just participating - they're investing," Hassan said. Dozens of students trained under Metrix Pakistan have already entered the blockchain workforce, secured freelance contracts, or launched early-stage ventures. "We've shown that with the right platform, youth in K-P can compete at the global level," he added. Outside the digital sphere, Hassan has also led environmental and health initiatives. His discovery of hidden waterfalls in Haripur turned into a sustainable tourism push, generating local jobs and boosting the economy. Additionally, his team has conducted free health camps in rural K-P, addressing basic healthcare gaps in neglected areas. Recognising his contributions, various civil society organisations and government departments have honoured him with accolades including the Fakhre Hazara Award and a regional recognition award for youth empowerment. More recently, Hassan launched the Metrix Pakistan Climate Change Summit series, engaging young people in climate activism. "The climate crisis is real, and our youth want to be part of the solution," he emphasised. Hassan has also advised provincial and federal authorities on youth engagement, digital empowerment, and social platforms, working closely with departments in both Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa and Punjab. A key part of his advocacy has focused on combating misinformation and digital harassment. Through strategic partnerships and platform outreach, Hassan has helped numerous women in Pakistan report and remove fake accounts used for impersonation or harassment.
