PM Shehbaz orders faster federal projects in Gilgit-Baltistan
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif directed ministries to speed up federal development projects in Gilgit-Baltistan and release funds on time. He gave the instructions at a high-level meeting on Friday.
- The prime minister told ministries to accelerate ongoing federal projects in Gilgit-Baltistan and provide funds on time.
- He asked for the 100-megawatt solar energy project to be completed as soon as possible.
- He is expected to visit Gilgit-Baltistan on November 1.
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif on Friday directed the relevant ministries and institutions to accelerate work on ongoing federal development projects in Gilgit-Baltistan and to ensure funds are provided on time so the projects can be completed.
He chaired a high-level meeting that reviewed progress on development initiatives in the region. According to 24 News, Gilgit-Baltistan Chief Minister Amjad Ali attended, along with several federal ministers, including Ahsan Iqbal, Azam Nazeer Tarar, Aleem Khan, Musadik Malik, Attaullah Tarar, Shaza Fatima and Sardar Awais Leghari. Advisers to the prime minister Rana Sanaullah and Muhammad Ali and other senior officials were also present.
The meeting reviewed ongoing hydropower, infrastructure and solar energy projects, including progress on the Naltar Power Project. A committee formed on the prime minister's directives in July 2026 presented its report on the implementation of federal projects in the region. The report examined the progress of ongoing schemes, identified obstacles and recommended measures for timely completion.
The prime minister directed authorities to expedite the 100-megawatt solar energy project launched by the federal government to meet electricity needs in Gilgit-Baltistan, and to complete it as soon as possible.
He also instructed ministries and departments to improve coordination and to remove administrative and financial obstacles on a priority basis. Authorities were told to make sure the necessary funds are available so that projects are completed without further delays. He directed regular monitoring of development schemes, particularly those in the energy sector.
The meeting also discussed measures to strengthen counterterrorism capabilities and to expand digital infrastructure in Gilgit-Baltistan.
The prime minister said the development of Gilgit-Baltistan, provision of basic facilities and improvement in the living standards of its people remained among the federal government's top priorities.
The meeting paid tribute to the people of Gilgit-Baltistan ahead of November 1, the day marking the region's liberation from Dogra rule in 1947. The prime minister is expected to visit the region on that day to take part in events marking the occasion.
Why it matters
Residents of Gilgit-Baltistan are affected by the pace of federal energy and infrastructure projects, including the solar project meant to meet the region's electricity needs.
