Federal Minister Engr Amir Muqam pledges swift development for Gilgit Baltistan
GILGIT: Federal Minister for Kashmir Affairs & Gilgit-Baltistan and SAFRON, Engr. Amir Muqam, vowed on Saturday to fast-track development projects in Gilgit-Baltistan, harness the region’s mineral resources and prioritize its progress.
Addressing press conference alongside former Chief Minister of Gilgit-Baltistan, Hafiz Hafeez-ur-Rehman, and MNA from Kohistan, Muhammad Idrees, he expressed appreciation for the warm reception in Gilgit-Baltistan.
He pledged to increase the capacity of the Hanzel Hydropower Project to 40 MW as a significant step towards the region’s progress.
Underlining the tourism prospects of Gilgit-Baltistan, he emphasized its status as a prime tourist destination. Directives have been issued to the Chief Secretary and other officials to expedite ongoing development projects.
Expressing concern over frequent flight cancellations causing inconvenience to the populace, Engr Amir Muqam announced plans to request the Prime Minister for the deployment of C-130 aircraft. He said that initiatives are in progress to secure constitutional rights for the people of Gilgit-Baltistan, including the appointment of judges to the Supreme Appellate Tribunals.
He said that traders involved in Pakistan-China trade will receive support and have their concerns addressed. He commended the people of Gilgit-Baltistan for not participating in the conspiracy to disrespect the Martyrs on May 9, 2023, stating that such abhorrent acts could not be committed by true patriots.
He emphasized the nation’s admiration for its armed forces and assured that those responsible for the events of May 9 would face consequences.
Responding to a query, he affirmed his respect for all workers who recognize former Prime Minister Muhammad Nawaz Sharif as their leader, emphasizing unity among PML-N members.
Earlier, Federal Minister for Kashmir Affairs & Gilgit-Baltistan and SAFRON, Engr Amir Muqam and Chief Minister Gilgit Baltistan Gulbar Khan agreed that coordination between the Gilgit-Baltistan government and the Ministry of Kashmir Affairs and Gilgit Baltistan should be further improved.
During a meeting, they held a detailed discussion regarding security situation in Gilgit-Baltistan, buget issues, development projects and supply of wheat to the region. Engr Amir Muqam said that federal government will extend all possible cooperation for development of Gilgit-Baltistan.
The federal minister said he will continue to resolve the problems of the area irrespective of any political affiliation.
Speaking on this occasion, Engr Amir Muqam said he had already apprised Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif regarding salaries, development projects and wheat supply in Gilgit-Baltistan and the Prime Minister directed to resolve the problems on priority basis.
The Federal Minister said he will contact the relevant forums to solve the economic problems of the region.
