The Government of Punjab has inducted a fleet of new GWM Haval H6 petrol SUVs into the Punjab Tourism Force, expanding the department’s operational capacity at key tourist destinations across the province.
Officials said the induction aims to improve on-ground mobility, emergency response, and visitor assistance as tourist activity increases across Punjab, particularly during peak travel seasons.
Strengthening Tourism Safety and Mobility
The Punjab Tourism Force is a specialized, uniformed unit created to enhance safety, provide guidance, and assist visitors at major tourist locations. Its personnel are deployed at high-traffic sites, including Murree, Taxila, Harappa, and the Soon Valley.
By adding modern SUVs to its fleet, the provincial government aims to ensure that tourism officers can respond quickly to emergencies, patrol remote areas, and maintain order at crowded attractions.
Vehicle Selection and Public Resource Use
The Haval H6 was selected for its balance of performance, safety features, and comfort. The move reflects a broader trend of provincial departments opting for modern, technology-equipped vehicles to support field operations.
However, the induction also raises questions about procurement costs, fuel expenses, and long-term maintenance, underscoring the need for transparency in public sector fleet expansion.
Key Exterior and Design Features
The Haval H6 comes with LED headlamps and taillamps, daytime running lights, rear fog lamps, and automatic headlights with a follow-me-home function. It also includes a panoramic sunroof, roof rails, a power-operated tailgate, heated auto-folding side mirrors, and 19-inch alloy wheels.
These features enhance both visibility and durability, particularly in hilly and high-traffic tourist areas.
Engine and Performance Capabilities
The SUV is powered by a turbocharged petrol engine paired with an automatic dual-clutch transmission. Depending on the variant, it is available with either a 1.5-liter or 2.0-liter engine, producing up to 235 horsepower and 385 Nm of torque.
The configuration allows for smooth highway driving as well as reliable performance on uneven terrain often encountered at tourist sites.
Interior Comfort and Safety Technology
Inside, the Haval H6 features a 14.6-inch infotainment display with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, a digital instrument cluster, dual-zone climate control, wireless charging, and an eight-speaker audio system.
Advanced driver assistance systems include adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, autonomous emergency braking, blind-spot monitoring, and a 360-degree camera, aimed at improving safety for both officers and civilians.
Accountability and Governance Focus
While the upgrade signals improved operational readiness, experts stress the importance of monitoring fuel usage, maintenance contracts, and deployment efficiency to ensure value for taxpayer money.
The Punjab government has said that strengthening tourism safety infrastructure remains a priority as the province seeks to boost domestic tourism, create jobs, and improve visitor confidence through better-managed public services.
