The Gwadar Development Authority (GDA) launched a series of social and sports events on April 2, aimed at increasing youth engagement and regional tourism following the Eid al-Fitr holiday season.

The "Jashn-e-Sahil Sports Festival" commenced Thursday at GDA-developed facilities, featuring a beach marathon organized in coordination with the Balochistan Department of Sports. 

Officials said the festival includes various athletic competitions with participants drawn from across the province.

A two-day National Youth Summit is scheduled for next week at the GDA Public Higher Secondary School. Organised by the provincial Department of Youth Affairs, the summit is designed to focus on leadership and education for participants traveling from various parts of Pakistan.

The city is also preparing for the centenary of Balochi poet and scholar Syed Zahoor Shah Hashmi on April 21. 

GDA confirmed the anniversary will be marked by a series of literary and cultural programs, according to a Gwadar Pro's report.

GDA Director General Moin-ur-Rehman Khan has instructed relevant departments to finalise arrangements for the upcoming events. 

Authority officials stated the festivities are expected to increase visitor numbers to the coastal city, providing a temporary stimulus to the local economy.

Credit: Independent News Pakistan (INP) — Pak-China