Mirpur, Pakistan administrated Jammu and Kashmir — The Commissioner of Mirpur Division, Raja Tahir Mumtaz Khan, has issued a firm deadline to the management of the under-construction Pearl Continental (PC) Hotel in Mirpur, directing them to complete and make the project fully operational within a clear and final timeframe, warning that failure to do so may compel the government to consider alternative options.

The five-star hotel project, located on prime land along the Mangla Lake, was originally scheduled for completion in 2023. Its prolonged delay has raised serious concerns among government officials, local residents, and overseas Kashmiris, who view the project as critical for Mirpur’s international connectivity, tourism potential, and economic growth.

An important review meeting was held under the chairmanship of the Commissioner, attended by senior officials from the Mirpur Development Authority and representatives of Hashoo Group Hospitality, including Chief Executive Officer Basten Plank and Vice President Asif Raza. During the meeting, the hotel management cited disruptions caused by the COVID-19 pandemic, financial constraints, and technical and administrative challenges as the primary reasons for the delay. Officials stated that nearly 90 percent of construction work has been completed, with an estimated investment of approximately PKR 3 billion.

Commissioner Raja Tahir Mumtaz Khan emphasized that the Azad Kashmir government had allocated highly valuable lakeside land specifically to facilitate the development of an international-standard hotel capable of supporting global-level activities, including international cricket events, industrial and commercial engagements, tourism at Mangla Dam, and the proposed Mirpur International Airport.

“The absence of a functional international-standard hotel has stalled several strategic initiatives, including international cricket matches and tourism development,” the Commissioner noted, adding that overseas Kashmiris have expressed strong interest in investing in high-end hospitality projects if clear progress is demonstrated.

Mirpur already hosts an international cricket stadium, but the lack of suitable accommodation for international teams has limited its utilization. Similarly, Mangla Lake is viewed as a major untapped asset for international water sports and tourism, with potential for large-scale foreign and diaspora investment.

The Commissioner directed the hotel management to submit a detailed completion plan and definitive timeline without further delay, warning that continued inaction could lead the government to explore alternative arrangements. He acknowledged growing frustration among overseas Kashmiris, whose financial and emotional ties to Mirpur remain strong but are increasingly tested by stalled development projects.

Officials expressed hope that the construction of the Mirpur International Airport, alongside the completion of the PC Hotel, could jointly transform Mirpur into a regional hub for tourism, business, and international events, generating employment and boosting the local economy.

For now, the future of the long-delayed hotel project hinges on whether the management can meet the newly imposed deadline and restore confidence among stakeholders at home and abroad.