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In 1993, Maureen Lines established KEPS (Kalash Environmental Protection Society) a registered NGO in Pakistan, to help the needs of the Kalash and their environment in 1995 she founded the British Charity HKCA (Hindu Kush Conservation Association). At present, one of the major things KEPS is involved in is a plan for encouraging tourism and the preservation of cultural heritage in the N.W.F.P and to promote soft tourism. Other long-term objectives are; • To preserve and conserve the indigenous group ‘The Kalasha’ their culture and to preserve the environment. HKCA (Hindu Kush Conservation Association) is a registered UK charity formed in 1995 (NO.1063232). It shares the same basic objectives as KEPS and concentrates its work on fundraising to support the work of Maureen Lines in the Kalash valleys. Its support has steadily increased and it now funds the basic administration of the organisation in Pakistan as well as an ever expanding medical project. This latter involves the funding of a Jeep cum ambulance , dispensaries in the valleys and stocking them with basic medical drugs. The Trustees are (from left to right):
Rupert Wright
Main Achievements Since its inception in January 1993, KEPS has been involved in various activities in the Kalash Valleys from a small Medical Project to health and sanitation, tourism and preservation of the old buildings in the valleys to the formation of young Women’s society in Birir regarding health education and awareness. Besides KEPS was instrumental in bringing the first TB Training Scheme to Chitral, including the opening that year, of a TB Testing Clinic at Shidi. KEPS has a good relationship with WWF & was instrumental in bringing IUCN to Chitral.
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