GILGIT: Prime Minister Imran Khan has announced a historic development package worth Rs370 billion to uplift Gilgit-Baltistan in a period of five years.
Announcing the main features of the development package at a ceremony in Gilgit, the prime minister said it was the first time that such a big amount will be used for the development of this picturesque and strategically located region.
Addressing a ceremony in GB, the prime minister said that the government was starting with a package worth Rs370bn to be spent over five years. “We will keep helping you,” he added.
The PM said the development package envisages hydel power generation and transmission projects, connectivity projects for tourism, youth skill and scholarship program, up-gradation of the healthcare system, and water and sanitation projects. He said the government will also support the development of small and medium enterprises in the area besides focusing on the expansion of its infrastructure. He said it will be a part of the government’s effort to enable the Gilgit airport to receive international flights.
Highlighting the immense and diverse tourism potential of Gilgit-Baltistan, the PM said this development package will prepare the region to attract tourists which will benefit not only the local people but the whole country.
He was confident that exploiting GB’s tourism potential will make it self-reliant.
He, however, emphasised the need for promotion of tourism in a planned manner to cultivate its true benefits.
He said tourism in the region should not affect the forests and the mountains. He said the introduction of the local government system in the region will help take forward the region.
