Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has directed federal ministries and departments to accelerate ongoing development projects in Gilgit-Baltistan, stressing that adequate funding and effective coordination are essential to ensure their timely completion.
He issued the instructions while chairing a meeting in Islamabad on Friday to review progress on federally funded projects in the region. Gilgit-Baltistan Chief Minister Amjad Ali also attended the meeting.
A key focus of the review was the implementation of hydropower, infrastructure and renewable energy initiatives. The prime minister called for early completion of the federal government’s 100-megawatt solar power project, which aims to improve electricity availability for residents.
The meeting also examined progress on the Naltar Power Project, measures to strengthen counterterrorism capabilities and plans to expand digital infrastructure across Gilgit-Baltistan.
The meeting also reviewed a report submitted by a committee established in July 2026 on the prime minister’s instructions. The report assessed the progress of federal development schemes, identified implementation challenges and outlined measures needed to remove delays.
Shehbaz Sharif directed the authorities to ensure the timely release of funds and address administrative and financial obstacles on a priority basis. He also called for stronger coordination among relevant institutions and regular monitoring of ongoing projects, particularly those related to energy.
The prime minister reiterated that improving infrastructure, expanding access to basic services and raising living standards in Gilgit-Baltistan remained important priorities for the federal government.
Federal ministers Ahsan Iqbal, Azam Nazeer Tarar, Abdul Aleem Khan, Musadik Malik, Attaullah Tarar, Shaza Fatima Khawaja and Awais Leghari attended the meeting, along with advisers Rana Sanaullah and Muhammad Ali and other senior officials.
The meeting also paid tribute to the people of Gilgit-Baltistan ahead of November 1, which commemorates the region’s liberation from Dogra rule in 1947 and its subsequent accession to Pakistan. The prime minister is expected to visit the region to participate in the commemorations.
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