Geo-Spatial And Ahp-Based Analysis To Delineate The Untapped Ecotourism Potential Of District Swat, Pakistan

Abstract

This study's main goal is to evaluate and identify possible ecotourism locations in Pakistan's Swat district by combining the Analytical Hierarchy Process (AHP) approach with Geographic Information System (GIS). Using information from a comprehensive literature analysis and field work, we took into account a number of variables, such as landscapes and natural features, rainfall, temperature, wildlife distribution,[1] land use, elevation, slope, and proximity to historical and cultural places. We successfully used the AHP technique to classify sub-parameters from highly suitable to unsuitable classes Using ArcGIS 10.8, we determined the final weighting of these criteria to identify suitable ecotourism sites. Our analysis revealed significant chances for ecotourism throughout the designated area, with the central and northern portions showing higher promise than other places due to spectacular glacial lakes, lush vegetation, and picturesque sites. While the southern and some central parts are high and moderate suitable form ecotourism. Accessibility, a wealth of historical and archaeological sites, wildlife distribution, and existing infrastructure are all important elements in unlocking this potential. In contrast, some south eastern sites have lower ecotourism potential. We hope that our study's findings will be useful in identifying ecotourism opportunities in the Swat district, hence promoting socioeconomic development in the region.