SWAT: A group of young girls from Swat and Chitral on Sunday combined environmental conservation with scientific learning during a hiking trip near the Malam Jabba forest, where they cleaned a tourist site and conducted preliminary research on medicinal plants in the area.

The activity was organised by Sheen Alpine Association, the first local women-led outdoor body in the region, in collaboration with the Upper Swat Development Authority and the district administration of Swat.

The association promotes women’s participation in unconventional fields and outdoor activities, including hiking, eco-tourism, mountain exploration, trekking, rock and glacier climbing, climate change awareness, artificial intelligence, and STEM education.

The event brought together school, college, and university students from Swat and Chitral, offering them an opportunity to explore nature, learn about biodiversity, and contribute to environmental protection.

Also collect information on various medicinal plants

“We are a voluntary association established by young students from Swat and Chitral, solely working to empower young girls and help them become independent,” said Maria Rahim, head of the association. “The girls are happy to break barriers and participate in outdoor activities without relying on men.”

During the hiking trip, participants collected information on various medicinal plants found in the forest and documented them for research.

Namra Ahmad, a member of the team, said that such activities were once considered impossible in the region, but determined young girls had successfully launched their own outdoor initiatives.

“We found many medicinal plants and took their photographs. Soon, we will begin research on these plants and publish a report,” she said.

She also expressed concern about environmental pollution in tourist destinations, noting that many scenic spots and forest areas were littered with polythene bags, plastic bottles, and snack wrappers left behind by visitors.

“Most tourists visiting these areas are men, and unfortunately many leave behind waste, which damages the natural beauty of forests and tourist sites,” she added.

The participants collected litter along the hiking trail and at popular viewpoints, highlighting the importance of responsible tourism and environmental stewardship.

Among the young students, Zuha Akbar described the experience as both educational and enjoyable. “I learned many new things about nature and medicinal plants. I also enjoyed the cool weather and the stunning natural beauty of the area,” she said.

Organisers said the initiative aimed to encourage girls to engage in outdoor learning, environmental conservation, and scientific exploration while promoting sustainable tourism in the mountainous region of Swat.

Published in Dawn, June 22nd, 2026