GHULAM ABBAS
ISLAMABAD:The Gilgit-Baltistan Development Working Party (GBDWP) has given the green light to projects worth a staggering 56 billion 459 million 80 thousand rupees.
As per details, notable among these is the approval of the Special Protection Unit Phase I, allocated a budget of 754 million 281 thousand 810 rupees.
Chaired by Chief Minister Haji Gulbar Khan, the second session of the GBDWP also saw approvals for the procurement and installation of DG sets for various power sector projects, totaling 501 million 624 thousand 240 rupees. Additionally, the acquisition of TG sets for hydel stations in Gilgit-Baltistan, with costs amounting to 723 million 300 thousand rupees, received the committee’s nod.
A significant highlight of the session was the approval of the 3.2 megawatt Hydro Power Project in Batote Noma Gilgit, with an allocated budget of 628 million 877 thousand 710 rupees. Moreover, the conversion of the 160-kilowatt Hydro Power Station in Tangir to 2 megawatts was approved, with a substantial budget of 829 million 943 thousand 390 rupees. Other notable projects include the modification of the Diyamir region bridge, extension of an 18-kilometer road, and the construction of sewage treatment plants for Zone 2 and 3 of Gilgit city, among others.
Expressing grave concern over persistent delays and inefficiencies in development projects, particularly in the electricity sector, Chief Minister Haji Gulbar Khan emphasized the urgent need for stringent action against responsible officers. He underscored the importance of rectifying PC-1 discrepancies and promptly initiating work on projects to prevent further setbacks to the national exchequer and ensure timely benefits to the public.
Furthermore, the Chief Minister noted with regret that due to PC-1 inaccuracies, the vital Shahrah-e-Resham to Shighar-Thang Road project faced delays despite recommendations for its accuracy verification by GB DDWP. Recognizing the project’s significance, the provincial government has prioritized rectifying the PC-1 and promptly commencing work on the project.
