ISLAMABAD: Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif on Friday directed the relevant authorities to expedite development projects in Gilgit-Baltistan (GB), remove bottlenecks delaying their completion and ensure timely release of funds.
Chairing a meeting to review federally funded projects in the region, the prime minister said improving living standards and ensuring access to basic facilities for the people of GB remained among the government’s priorities.
The meeting reviewed a report prepared by a committee constituted in July 2026 on the prime minister’s instructions.
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The report highlighted progress on ongoing projects, identified hurdles affecting their implementation and proposed measures to ensure their timely completion.
Officials also briefed the meeting on hydropower schemes, infrastructure development and solar energy projects in the region.
Sharif stressed the need for early completion of the 100-megawatt solar power project initiated by the federal government to help meet the region’s energy requirements.
Progress on the Naltar hydropower project also came under discussion. The meeting was further briefed on measures to strengthen counterterrorism capabilities and improve digital infrastructure in GB.
The prime minister directed the relevant ministries and departments to coordinate their efforts to address delays, particularly those arising from funding and administrative issues.
He also called for regular monitoring of development projects, especially energy schemes, to ensure that their benefits reached local communities without further delay.
The meeting also paid tribute to the people of GB ahead of November 1, which marks their liberation from Dogra rule in 1947 and subsequent accession to Pakistan.
According to a statement issued by the Prime Minister’s Office, the prime minister is expected to visit GB on the occasion.
GB Chief Minister Amjad Hussain also attended the meeting.
Copyright Business Recorder, 2026