In Swat, a popular tourist destination in Pakistan, non-custom paid cars are legally allowed due to a special exemption granted by the government.
The exemption applies to non-custom paid cars registered in the Federally Administered Tribal Areas (FATA) before its merger with Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP) province in 2018.
According to local officials, the exemption was granted to promote tourism in the region and facilitate the movement of visitors who own non-custom paid cars.
The exemption only applies to FATA-registered cars that were legally imported into the area before its merger with KP province. Non-FATA registered cars without customs clearance are still illegal in Swat and will be confiscated by the authorities.
Swat is known for its scenic beauty and historical landmarks, attracting a large number of domestic and international tourists every year. The decision to allow non-custom paid cars is expected to make it easier for tourists to travel to and around the region, thereby boosting its tourism industry and economy.
However, concerns have been raised over the safety and environmental impact of non-custom paid cars on the roads in Swat. Such vehicles are often poorly maintained and emit high levels of pollutants, posing a threat to both public health and the environment.
To address these concerns, the local authorities have pledged to take strict measures to ensure the safety and environmental standards of non-custom paid cars operating in the region.