Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif unveiled several major initiatives for the development and welfare of Gilgit-Baltistan (G-B) during a special meeting of the G-B Cabinet in Gilgit on Wednesday. His visit emphasized the federal government’s dedication to addressing local needs and advancing various sectors in the region.
The PM announced the immediate supply of 100 MW of electricity to G-B, providing a significant boost to its power infrastructure. He also introduced a Rs1 billion endowment fund for meritorious students at Baltistan and Karakoram universities. Additionally, he expressed satisfaction over the successful reconstruction of housing for 2022 flood victims in Ghizer district and instructed the G-B administration to focus on enhancing critical services like education, playgrounds, and electricity in District Ghizer.
Shehbaz Sharif further highlighted the establishment of Daanish Schools to improve education in remote areas, recalling his previous donation of Rs1 billion to G-B’s education sector during his tenure as Punjab’s Chief Minister.
The PM also discussed the positive economic signs in Pakistan, citing record stock market growth, increased remittances, and more tax filers, crediting the successful collaboration between provinces and regions in the country’s recovery.
Shehbaz Sharif revealed plans to boost tourism in G-B, with Qatari investors expressing interest in the sector, which could bring economic growth and job opportunities. Additionally, he marked the inauguration of key infrastructure projects such as the Naltar Expressway, an Engineering Block at Karakoram International University, and the Baltistan University project.
The PM laid the foundation for vital energy and water projects, including the Attabad Lake Hydro, Harpo Hydro, and Greater Water Supply Hunza projects, aimed at improving infrastructure and providing electricity and water to the region.
He also stressed the importance of equipping G-B’s youth with IT skills for better job prospects, particularly in the Gulf countries. In his address, the PM acknowledged the sacrifices of the people of G-B in their struggle for freedom, assuring them that their efforts would lead to a prosperous future for Pakistan.
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PRESS UPDATE