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                        <title>Get The Latest News Updates Of Gilgit Baltistan - The Express Tribune</title>
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                        <description>The Express Tribune keeps you up to date with all the latest happenings from Pakistan and across the world!</description>
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			<title>Early warning system in G-B inactive</title>
			<link>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2604485/early-warning-system-in-g-b-inactive</link>
			<comments>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2604485/early-warning-system-in-g-b-inactive#comments</comments>
			<pubDate>Thu, 23 Apr 26 21:24:18 +0500</pubDate>
			<dc:creator>
				<![CDATA[Our Correspondent]]>
			</dc:creator>
			<category><![CDATA[Pakistan]]></category>
			<guid isPermaLink="false">https://tribune.com.pk/?p=2604485</guid>
			<description>
				<![CDATA[Govt moves to fortify strategic crude oil reserves]]>
			</description>
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				<![CDATA[The early warning system installed in Gilgit-Baltistan for the protection against glacial lake outburst floods (GLOFs) remained inactive.

This was disclosed during a meeting chairing by PM Shehbaz Sharif to review pre-monsoon preparedness and climate-related risks.

Taking notice, the prime minister ordered a high-level inquiry into the non-functional and directed all relevant institutions to accelerate coordinated preparations ahead of the upcoming monsoon season.

The prime minister expressed strong displeasure over the continued inactivity of the early warning system despite clear directives issued last year.

He warned that negligence and weak institutional performance would not be tolerated and emphasized that safeguarding citizens from environmental hazards remains a core responsibility of all departments, a Prime Minister&#39;s Office news release said.

The prime minister instructed federal ministries and provincial governments to remove bottlenecks hindering policy implementation and ensure full operationalization of digital monitoring infrastructure for early warning systems.

During the meeting, the NDMA, WAPDA, and the Ministry of Climate Change briefed the prime minister on progress made in line with earlier directives. Senior federal ministers, advisers, provincial chief secretaries, and top officials from relevant departments attended the session.

Energy security

Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif on Thursday, calling energy security a vital part of the country&#39;s future planning, said that the government&#39;s timely measures regarding energy conservation in the current regional situation averted a crisis.

The prime minister, chairing a high-level meeting regarding energy security, said that work was underway on a plan to maintain strategic reserves of crude oil in the country, keeping in view future energy needs.

Besides, he said that for energy conservation and sustainable development, means of transportation should be gradually transitioned to eco-friendly electric vehicles (EVs).

The prime minister directed to purchase only electric buses and motorcycles for government use in the future and accelerate the establishment of charging stations for EVs.

Calling for a strategy to facilitate the acquisition of batteries for the storage of surplus solar electricity, he said that local manufacturing of high-quality storage batteries should also be encouraged.

During the briefing, the participants of the meeting were told that the National Coordination and Management Council (NCMC) was reviewing the energy situation on a daily basis.

It was informed that sufficient stocks of petroleum products were available, and the food security situation in the country was also stable.

Pakistani Astronauts

Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif on Thursday met Pakistani astronauts Khurram Daud and Muhammad Zeeshan Ali, who have been selected for a human space mission, and described their participation in space research as a landmark achievement for the country and a matter of national pride.

Astronaut Attach&eacute; Hasnain Iftikhar from Pakistan Space and Upper Atmosphere Research Commission (SUPARCO) was also present during the meeting held here at the Prime Minister&#39;s Office, a news release said.]]>
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			<title>GB election: 664 candidates file papers</title>
			<link>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2604290/gb-election-664-candidates-file-papers</link>
			<comments>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2604290/gb-election-664-candidates-file-papers#comments</comments>
			<pubDate>Wed, 22 Apr 26 20:35:28 +0500</pubDate>
			<dc:creator>
				<![CDATA[Our Correspondent]]>
			</dc:creator>
			<category><![CDATA[Pakistan]]></category>
			<guid isPermaLink="false">https://tribune.com.pk/?p=2604290</guid>
			<description>
				<![CDATA[Hunza's lone constituency has drawn 38 candidates]]>
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				<![CDATA[A total of 664 candidates have filed nomination papers for the Gilgit-Baltistan general elections scheduled for June 7, 2026.

The candidates will contest elections on 24 constituencies across the region. Constituency Gilgit-2 has attracted the highest number of candidates, with 58 contenders, while Diamer-4 has the lowest, with 11 candidates in the race.

In Gilgit district, 34 candidates have filed papers from Gilgit-1, 58 from Gilgit-2, and 32 from Gilgit-3. In Nagar, 38 candidates are contesting from Nagar-1 and 30 from Nagar-2.

Hunza&#39;s lone constituency has drawn 38 candidates.]]>
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			<title>Gilgit-Baltistan elections to be held on June 7</title>
			<link>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2602343/gilgit-baltistan-elections-to-be-held-on-june-7</link>
			<comments>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2602343/gilgit-baltistan-elections-to-be-held-on-june-7#comments</comments>
			<pubDate>Sat, 11 Apr 26 21:27:24 +0500</pubDate>
			<dc:creator>
				<![CDATA[Our Correspondent]]>
			</dc:creator>
			<category><![CDATA[Pakistan]]></category>
			<guid isPermaLink="false">https://tribune.com.pk/?p=2602343</guid>
			<description>
				<![CDATA[Polls will be  held under Election Act 2017 and G-B Order 2018]]>
			</description>
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				<![CDATA[General elections in Gilgit-Baltistan will be held on June 7, the GB Election Commission announced on Saturday after a four-month delay.

General elections for the G-B Assembly were scheduled for Jan 24, 2026. However, days after the announcement, the elections were postponed indefinitely due to harsh weather conditions in the region. The G-B Election Commission Secretariat, in a notification, announced June 7 as the poll day for the Gilgit-Baltistan Assembly general elections. It added the elections would be held under Election Act 2017 and G-B Order 2018.

G-B Chief Election Commissioner Raja Shahbaz Khan also confirmed the development. As for the local government election, Khan said a schedule will be issued later, and it will be held after the general election.

He added that preparations were ready for both.

LG polls in G-B, announced after a gap of 20 years, were initially set for Feb 14, 2026.

Earlier this month, Khan said the GB Election Commission was preparing to conduct the elections but had not yet decided on a date. Fourteen political parties had stood opposed to holding elections in the months of January or February due to harsh weather conditions, as many areas remained cut off from other areas amid heavy snowfall.

Political parties in G-B were uncertain about holding elections before June but feared they could be delayed until October. They agreed that holding elections during Muharram, which begins on June 15 or 16 this year, or on other religious occasions such as Chehlum, was not possible.

Political leaders, therefore, feared that postponing elections until June could effectively delay them until September or October.]]>
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			<title>Terror threat: Gilgit-Baltistan put on high alert</title>
			<link>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2603397/terror-threat-gilgit-baltistan-put-on-high-alert</link>
			<comments>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2603397/terror-threat-gilgit-baltistan-put-on-high-alert#comments</comments>
			<pubDate>Fri, 17 Apr 26 20:59:28 +0500</pubDate>
			<dc:creator>
				<![CDATA[APP]]>
			</dc:creator>
			<category><![CDATA[Pakistan]]></category>
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			<description>
				<![CDATA[Police have established multiple checkpoints at key locations and entry/exit points of the city]]>
			</description>
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				<![CDATA[. Security has been put on high alert in Gilgit following potential threats of terrorism, a spokesperson for Gilgit-Baltistan police said on Friday.

According to the police, security installations are considered potential targets, prompting authorities to further tighten safety measures. Enhanced security arrangements have been implemented at all religious sites, key installations, and offices of law enforcement agencies.

Police have established multiple checkpoints at key locations and entry/exit points of the city, where strict checking and search operations of suspicious individuals are underway.]]>
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			<title>G-B motorway project gains momentum</title>
			<link>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2601971/g-b-motorway-project-gains-momentum</link>
			<comments>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2601971/g-b-motorway-project-gains-momentum#comments</comments>
			<pubDate>Thu, 09 Apr 26 21:17:07 +0500</pubDate>
			<dc:creator>
				<![CDATA[Our Correspondent]]>
			</dc:creator>
			<category><![CDATA[Pakistan]]></category>
			<guid isPermaLink="false">https://tribune.com.pk/?p=2601971</guid>
			<description>
				<![CDATA[Serves alternative to Karakoram Highway and reduce travel distance by 100 kilometres]]>
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				<![CDATA[Gilgit-Baltistan Governor Syed Mehdi Shah on Thursday called on Federal Minister for Communications Abdul Aleem Khan to discuss infrastructure development and improvement of road networks in the region.

The meeting discussed the proposed Motorway Project from Mansehra, Naran, Kaghan, and Babusar Top to Jalkhand (MNJ).

Abdul Aleem Khan stated that the motorway would serve as an alternative to the Karakoram Highway (KKH) and reduce travel distance by 100 kilometres as well. He added that, facilitating easier travel and promoting tourism, this project will be a game-changer for the region.

Aleem Khan further stated that the Government aimed to improve roads in tourist areas on a priority basis to attract more visitors, thereby creating employment and business opportunities for local communities. He reiterated the commitment to ensuring uniform development across the country and prioritizing the construction of quality road infrastructure in all regions, especially in northern areas.

Governor Gilgit-Baltistan expressed satisfaction with the performance of the National Highway Authority and appreciated the Federal Minister&#39;s support for the development of Gilgit-Baltistan.]]>
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			<title>PML-N leadership meets in Islamabad to finalise G-B election tickets</title>
			<link>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2603763/pml-n-leadership-meets-in-islamabad-to-finalise-g-b-election-tickets</link>
			<comments>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2603763/pml-n-leadership-meets-in-islamabad-to-finalise-g-b-election-tickets#comments</comments>
			<pubDate>Mon, 20 Apr 26 08:24:26 +0500</pubDate>
			<dc:creator>
				<![CDATA[Khalid Mehmood]]>
			</dc:creator>
			<category><![CDATA[Pakistan]]></category><category><![CDATA[Gilgit-Baltistan]]></category>
			<guid isPermaLink="false">https://tribune.com.pk/?p=2603763</guid>
			<description>
				<![CDATA[Board includes PM Shehbaz, Nawaz Sharif, Ishaq Dar, Ahsan Iqbal, Khawaja Asif, Maryam Nawaz and others]]>
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				<![CDATA[The leadership of the Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N), including Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and party leader Nawaz Sharif, met in Islamabad at Punjab House on Monday to finalise party tickets for the upcoming Gilgit-Baltistan (G-B) elections, according to party sources.

Nawaz arrived at Punjab House in Islamabad, where members of the party&rsquo;s parliamentary board had also gathered for the meeting. A 23-member parliamentary board has been formed by the party leadership to select suitable candidates for the G-B general elections.

The board includes PM Shehbaz, Deputy Prime Minister Ishaq Dar, Planning Minister and PML-N Secretary General Ahsan Iqbal, and Defence Minister Khawaja Asif. Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz, Hamza Shehbaz, Khawaja Saad Rafique, and Ijaz Shah are also part of the panel.

PML-N Gilgit-Baltistan President Hafeezur Rehman and senior party leaders, including Senator Pervaiz Rashid, Rana Sanaullah, Marriyum Aurangzeb, Anusha Rahman, Captain (retd) Muhammad Safdar, and Chaudhry Barjees Tahir, are also attending the meeting.

Read More: Terror threat: Gilgit-Baltistan put on high alert

In addition, PML-N Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa President Engineer Amir Muqam and Gilgit-Baltistan leaders Haji Akbar Taban, Shams Mir, Muhammad Ashraf Sada, Muhammad Anwar, Arman Shah, Sultan Ali Khan, and Muhammad Imran Wakeel are participating as members of the parliamentary board.

A high-level PML-N delegation from Gilgit-Baltistan had earlier met Sanaullah and Muqam last week to discuss preparations for the upcoming general elections. The meeting included detailed consultations on the overall political situation, organisational matters, and future electoral strategy in G-B, according to a press release.

It was agreed to field strong, capable, and popular candidates in all constituencies, while accelerating and streamlining the election campaign. The participants also agreed to expand public outreach efforts.

G-B elections on June 7

The G-B Election Commission Secretariat, in a notification, on April 12, announced June 7 as the poll day for the Gilgit-Baltistan Assembly general elections. It added that the elections would be held under the Election Act 2017 and G-B Order 2018.

General elections for the G-B Assembly were originally scheduled for January 24. However, days after the announcement, the elections were postponed indefinitely due to harsh weather conditions in the region.

Earlier this month, Khan said the GB Election Commission was preparing to conduct the elections but had not yet decided on a date. Fourteen political parties had stood opposed to holding elections in the months of January or February due to harsh weather conditions, as many areas remained cut off from other areas amid heavy snowfall.

Political parties in G-B were uncertain about holding elections before June but feared they could be delayed until October. They agreed that holding elections during Muharram, which begins on June 15 or 16 this year, or on other religious occasions such as Chehlum, was not possible.

Political leaders, therefore, feared that postponing elections until June could effectively delay them until September or October.]]>
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			<title>NDMA warns of nationwide rain, thunderstorms over next 24 hours</title>
			<link>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2599229/ndma-warns-of-nationwide-rain-thunderstorms-over-next-24-hours</link>
			<comments>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2599229/ndma-warns-of-nationwide-rain-thunderstorms-over-next-24-hours#comments</comments>
			<pubDate>Wed, 25 Mar 26 13:52:42 +0500</pubDate>
			<dc:creator>
				<![CDATA[Web Desk]]>
			</dc:creator>
			<category><![CDATA[Pakistan]]></category>
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			<description>
				<![CDATA[Says various parts of Sindh, Punjab, Balochistan and Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa to see rain with thunderstorms]]>
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				<![CDATA[The National Emergencies Operation Centre (NEOC) of the National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) on Wednesday warned of nationwide thunderstorms and rainfall over the next 12 to 24 hours.

According to an advisory issued by the authority, a system of western winds entering from the southwestern belt of Balochistan is likely to affect most regions, bringing rain accompanied by strong winds and gusty storms.

The NDMA cautioned that ongoing rainfall may lead to urban flooding in low-lying areas of Islamabad, Rawalpindi, Attock and Chakwal. Residents in vulnerable localities have been advised to remain alert and take precautionary measures to minimise potential damage.

Rain with thunderstorms and strong winds is expected in Islamabad and several cities of Punjab, including Murree, Rawalpindi, Attock, Jhelum, Chakwal, Gujrat, Sialkot, Lahore, Mianwali and Mandi Bahauddin over the next 12 to 24 hours. Rainfall is also likely in Khushab, Sargodha, Gujranwala, Hafizabad, Faisalabad, Kasur, Okara, Narowal, Dera Ghazi Khan, Multan, Bahawalpur, Sahiwal, Bahawalnagar and Rahim Yar Khan.

Read: Govt proposes optional multi-tariff system for industries

The advisory stated that various parts of Sindh, Punjab, Balochistan and Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa (K-P) are expected to experience rain accompanied by thunderstorms, dust storms and strong winds, with chances of hailstorms at isolated locations.

In view of the anticipated downpour, the NDMA has issued an alert for possible flooding in several districts of K-P and Balochistan. Flash floods are forecast in Balochistan, particularly in Turbat, Kech, Gwadar, Khuzdar, Zhob and Lasbela.

In K-P, flood-like conditions are expected in Dera Ismail Khan, Bannu, Parachinar, Peshawar, Mardan and Swabi. Authorities have advised precautionary measures in vulnerable areas.

Snowfall is also expected in the upper and mountainous regions of Gilgit-Baltistan, Azad Kashmir and K-P during the next 12 to 24 hours.

Rain with thunderstorms and strong winds is likely in several districts of K-P, including Chitral, Dir, Swat, Shangla, Kohistan, Mansehra, Abbottabad and Haripur. Dust storms, strong winds and rain are also expected in Swabi, Charsadda, Mardan, Nowshera, Kohat, Karak, Bannu and Dera Ismail Khan.

NDMA also forecast rainfall in parts of G-B and Azad Kashmir, including Skardu, Hunza, Gilgit, Astore, Diamer, Ghizer, Muzaffarabad, Bagh, Rawalakot, Haveli and Neelum Valley.

In Balochistan, rain is expected in Quetta, Zhob, Ziarat, Kalat, Qila Saifullah, Qila Abdullah, Pishin, Barkhan, Sibi, Dera Bugti, Khuzdar, Awaran, Washuk, Panjgur, Turbat, Gwadar and Lasbela during the same period.

Also Read: Doha flights resume as Pakistan restores Middle East air links after 25-day disruption

Rain with thunderstorms is also expected in Sindh cities including Kashmore, Jacobabad, Sukkur, Shahdadkot, Khairpur and Larkana.

The NDMA warned that strong winds, lightning and hailstorms may damage weak structures, trees and power lines. Rainfall could make roads slippery and disrupt traffic flow, while snowfall in mountainous areas is likely to affect travel.

Continuous rainfall in hilly regions may heighten the risk of landslides. Citizens have been advised to avoid unnecessary travel, drive cautiously and follow official weather advisories. During strong winds and storms, the public has been urged to stay away from trees, fragile structures and installations.

The authority also advised tourists and travellers heading to northern areas to be cautious and check weather and road conditions in advance, while encouraging citizens to obtain timely updates through its official mobile application, &ldquo;Pak NDMA Disaster Alert.&rdquo;

Meanwhile, the NDMA has directed all provincial and district administrations to remain on high alert and take necessary measures to cope with the expected weather situation.]]>
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			<title>German envoy lauds Lift Irrigation Project in G-B's Nagar district</title>
			<link>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2572763/german-envoy-lauds-lift-irrigation-project-in-g-bs-nagar-district</link>
			<comments>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2572763/german-envoy-lauds-lift-irrigation-project-in-g-bs-nagar-district#comments</comments>
			<pubDate>Thu, 16 Oct 25 15:39:09 +0500</pubDate>
			<dc:creator>
				<![CDATA[SHABBIR MIR]]>
			</dc:creator>
			<category><![CDATA[Pakistan]]></category>
			<guid isPermaLink="false">https://tribune.com.pk/?p=2572763</guid>
			<description>
				<![CDATA[Project viewed as milestone in rural development, combining advanced engineering with strong community participation]]>
			</description>
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				<![CDATA[German Ambassador to Pakistan, Ina Lepel, visited the Qorqon Dass Lift Irrigation Project in Gilgit-Baltistan&rsquo;s Nagar district on Thursday, commending the initiative for transforming barren mountain slopes into fertile farmland and promoting large-scale afforestation in the region.

The German envoy met with local community members and representatives of the Aga Khan Rural Support Programme (AKRSP), which implemented the project under the Hydropower and Renewable Energy Phase II (HRE-II) initiative, supported by Germany&rsquo;s KfW Development Bank.

The innovative irrigation system pumps water 418 feet uphill to the Qorqon Dass plateau, enabling the cultivation of 1,200 kanals of previously uncultivable land. The project is viewed as a milestone in sustainable rural development, combining advanced engineering with strong community participation.



&ldquo;This initiative reflects the enduring partnership between the people of Gilgit-Baltistan and German development cooperation,&rdquo; Lepel said. &ldquo;It demonstrates how collaboration and shared commitment can yield tangible progress in improving livelihoods and resilience.&rdquo;

A distinctive feature of the project is its focus on women&rsquo;s empowerment. Thirty per cent of the newly irrigated land &mdash; about 360 kanals &mdash; has been allocated to women&rsquo;s organisations, giving them ownership and direct control over agricultural production for the first time.

&ldquo;The water lifted uphill has also lifted our place in the community,&rdquo; said Bibi Hoor, president of the Akbarabad Women Organisation.

In addition to advancing gender equality, the community has designated another 30 per cent of the land for wildlife habitats, highlighting its commitment to biodiversity and climate resilience.

&ldquo;Climate change has hit our mountains hard &mdash; springs have dried up, and wildlife is vanishing,&rdquo; said Sajid Ali, chairman of the Shainbar Rural Support Organisation. &ldquo;By dedicating land to both farming and biodiversity, we are healing both our people and our environment.&rdquo;

Villagers described the project as both an engineering feat and a social transformation. &ldquo;It&rsquo;s like making the river climb the mountain,&rdquo; remarked a local elder as the first streams reached the plateau.

Located about 50 kilometres from Gilgit and perched 6,079 feet above sea level, Chalt in Nagar has long relied on subsistence farming. The new irrigation system is expected to benefit over 570 families by enhancing food security, boosting incomes, and fostering environmental regeneration.

For AKRSP, the project continues a four-decade legacy of helping mountain communities reclaim and cultivate over 131,000 hectares of new land across Gilgit-Baltistan and Chitral.

Experts say the Qorqon Dass project&rsquo;s integration of technology, social equity, and environmental stewardship makes it a model for climate-smart rural development in Pakistan&rsquo;s northern areas.]]>
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			<title>Singer Quratulain Balouch dodges rare bear attack in Deosai</title>
			<link>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2565204/singer-quratulain-balouch-dodges-rare-bear-attack-in-deosai</link>
			<comments>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2565204/singer-quratulain-balouch-dodges-rare-bear-attack-in-deosai#comments</comments>
			<pubDate>Fri, 05 Sep 25 07:55:40 +0500</pubDate>
			<dc:creator>
				<![CDATA[SHABBIR MIR]]>
			</dc:creator>
			<category><![CDATA[Pakistan]]></category>
			<guid isPermaLink="false">https://tribune.com.pk/?p=2565204</guid>
			<description>
				<![CDATA[G-B government bans camping in the Deosai National Park]]>
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				<![CDATA[Quratulain Balouch, the Pakistani singer famed for Woh Humsafar Tha, survived a rare bear attack in Deosai &mdash; an incident that has prompted the Gilgit-Baltistan government to ban camping in the Deosai National Park .



&nbsp;

Singer&rsquo;s hands bandaged after bear attack

Read: Protecting Deosai bears

Balouch was attacked near Bara Pani and later rescued in an injured condition. Hospital staff said both her arms were wounded in the incident, but she was shifted to Skardu Regional Hospital where doctors confirmed she is stable and out of danger.

Giligit Baltistan spokesperson Faizullah Faraq said that under the new restrictions, no tourist or traveler will be allowed to camp overnight in Deosai.

Often described as the &ldquo;Land of Giants,&rdquo; Deosai is one of the world&rsquo;s highest plateaus, stretching over 3,000 square kilometres at an altitude above 13,000 feet. The windswept plateau, carpeted with wildflowers in summer, is home to rare wildlife including the endangered Himalayan brown bear, snow leopard, ibex, golden marmot, lynx, musk deer, and several migratory bird species.

The G-B government said the camping ban was imposed to ensure the safety of visitors and to protect the fragile alpine ecosystem, which conservationists say is increasingly under pressure from rising tourism.

Balouch, popularly known as QB, rose to prominence with her rendition of Woh Humsafar Tha, the title track of the hit drama Humsafar. She later performed several Coke Studio favourites and playback songs in Bollywood films.]]>
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			<title>Climate-driven erosion cuts Karakoram Highway in Upper Hunza</title>
			<link>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2560615/climate-driven-erosion-cuts-karakoram-highway-in-upper-hunza</link>
			<comments>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2560615/climate-driven-erosion-cuts-karakoram-highway-in-upper-hunza#comments</comments>
			<pubDate>Sun, 10 Aug 25 09:01:41 +0500</pubDate>
			<dc:creator>
				<![CDATA[Fatima Ahtesham]]>
			</dc:creator>
			<category><![CDATA[Pakistan]]></category>
			<guid isPermaLink="false">https://tribune.com.pk/?p=2560615</guid>
			<description>
				<![CDATA[Accelerated glacial melt, rising temperatures key drivers of flooding, erosion]]>
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				<![CDATA[A significant stretch of the Karakoram Highway (KKH) in Upper Hunza&rsquo;s Morkhun area was destroyed by river erosion on Friday, severing the overland link between Pakistan and China, the Gilgit-Baltistan (G-B) government said.



️ اہم اطلاع: پاکستان اور چین کے درمیان زمینی رابطہ منقطع ⚠️

بالائی ہنزہ میں دریائے ہنزہ گلگت بلتستان کے شدید کٹاؤ کی وجہ سے شاہراہِ قراقرم (KKH) کا ایک حصہ گرچہ اور مورخون (زرت غار بین) کے مقام پر دریا برد ہو گیا ہے۔
اس کے نتیجے میں سوست اور ہنزہ کے درمیان شاہراہ ہر قسم کی&hellip; pic.twitter.com/VctQUGBg6b
&mdash; Gilgit Baltistan Tourism. (@GBTourism_) August 8, 2025


&quot;River erosion remains a key contributor to highway blockages in the region,&quot; a cryosphere expert told The Express Tribune. &quot;Although disruptions on the KKH are not unusual, the current intensity of river swelling and the scale of damage are significantly higher.&quot;

G-B government spokesperson Faizullah Faraq confirmed that the increased river flow led to the erosion of a section of the KKH, rendering it impassable. Chief Minister Haji Gulbar Khan has directed immediate restoration of the highway.

Since June, Pakistan has faced severe flash floods driven by cloudbursts, glacial lake outburst floods (GLOFs), and heavy monsoon rains. G-B remains among the worst-affected areas due to its mountainous terrain and exposure to glacial melt.

This event also reflects a shift in snow cover dynamics across elevation zones in G-B. Snow cover area (SCA) has been decreasing at lower elevations, where key infrastructure, including highways, is often located, according to Winter report 2024-2025 by the National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA). The loss of seasonal snow at these elevations results in earlier and faster melt, causing rivers to swell more rapidly than before.

At the same time, permanent snow cover persists at higher elevations (above 5000 masl), where glaciated zones vary in size seasonally but show long-term shrinkage trends. In summer, the contraction of snowpack coincides with rainfall and GLOFs, multiplying hydrological stress on already fragile slopes and valley roads.

With the monsoon season ongoing and temperatures continuing to rise, officials have warned of more climate-related disruptions, urging residents and tourists to exercise caution and follow official advisories.

Data recorded between 2001 and 2020 shows that surface temperatures (LST) have risen steadily year by year, with sharp seasonal spikes in June, August, and September&mdash;precisely the months when monsoon intensity and glacial runoffs peak. These warming trends have led to the retreat of glaciers at lower elevations, adding to the volume of meltwater feeding into the region&rsquo;s rivers. The increased runoff from snow and glacier melt in summer months exerts immense pressure on riverbanks, heightening the risk of flash floods and erosion events such as the one that severed the KKH.



&nbsp;

Source: Winter report 2024-2025 by National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA)

Such hydrological changes result in severe erosion along riverbanks, compromising infrastructure and triggering landslides or washouts that obstruct vital transport routes like the KKH.

The rising frequency and severity of such incidents point to the increasing vulnerability of regional road networks to climate-induced hydrological shifts.



گلگت بلتستان میں گلیشئرز پگھلنے اور گرنے کا خوف ناک منظر۔❄️

گلگت بلتستان میں قیامت خیز منظر

گلیشئر کا ٹوٹ کر گرجنا، پہاڑوں میں گونجتی دہاڑ، اور برف کے دیوہیکل تودے کا زمین پر گرتے ہی ہر طرف برفیلی دھول کا طوفان&hellip;! یہ کوئی فلم کا سین نہیں، بلکہ گلگت بلتستان کا حقیقت سے بھرا&hellip; pic.twitter.com/T08TgfyGbR
&mdash; Gilgit Baltistan Tourism. (@GBTourism_) August 9, 2025


This calls for a combination of structural interventions and informed policy measures.

While snow cover shows a decreasing trend in spring and summer, it temporarily increases during winter at higher elevations. These opposing trends at similar altitudes increase the unpredictability of runoff patterns, making it more difficult to anticipate river behaviour. Combined with rising LST, these changes are likely to exacerbate the frequency of floods, landslides, and slope failures&mdash;threatening essential infrastructure like the KKH. Glacial retreat, especially at mid-range elevations of 3000&ndash;4000 masl, is expected to continue unless warming trends reverse, compounding the vulnerabilities for both natural and built environments.

&quot;One key strategy is conducting detailed studies of river dynamics&mdash;including sediment transport, seasonal flows, and potential course changes&mdash;and performing risk assessments before road construction,&quot; said the cryosphere expert.

&quot;Incorporating hydrological and geomorphological evaluations during the planning stages can reduce exposure to such risks.&quot;

&quot;During winter, when river discharge is low, strategically redirecting river flow toward less populated, rugged areas may help reshape channels and reduce pressure on fragile banks. Gabion walls provide some defence against erosion, though their effectiveness decreases under high-intensity water flow.&quot;

However, such interventions must be carefully designed to avoid ecological or geomorphological harm.

&nbsp;

&nbsp;]]>
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			<title>PMD issues flood, landslide warning as heavy rains expected in northern parts from Sept 26 to Oct 1</title>
			<link>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2497969/pmd-issues-flood-landslide-warning-as-heavy-rains-expected-in-northern-parts-from-sept-26-to-oct-1</link>
			<comments>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2497969/pmd-issues-flood-landslide-warning-as-heavy-rains-expected-in-northern-parts-from-sept-26-to-oct-1#comments</comments>
			<pubDate>Sun, 22 Sep 24 19:48:40 +0500</pubDate>
			<dc:creator>
				<![CDATA[news.desk]]>
			</dc:creator>
			<category><![CDATA[Pakistan]]></category>
			<guid isPermaLink="false">https://tribune.com.pk/?p=2497969</guid>
			<description>
				<![CDATA[Meanwhile, hot and dry weather is predicted for Balochistan and Sindh during this period]]>
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				<![CDATA[The Pakistan Meteorological Department issued a warning on Sunday about the potential for heavy rains from September 26 to October 1, which could lead to flooding and landslides, particularly in the low-lying and northern regions of the country.&nbsp;

The Met Office indicated that moist currents from the Bay of Bengal are expected to enter the upper parts of the country starting September 25, alongside a westerly wave that will approach from September 26.&nbsp;

&ldquo;Heavy rains may increase flow in local nullas/streams in Murree, Galliyat, Mansehra, Abbottabad, Kohistan, Gilgit-Baltistan, Kashmir, Chitral, Dir, Swat, Shangla, Bajaur, Mohmand, Khyber, Nowshera, Swabi, Islamabad/Rawalpindi and Northeast Punjab during the forecast period,&rdquo; the statement read.

Urban flooding is anticipated in low-lying areas of Islamabad/Rawalpindi, Gujranwala, Lahore, Sheikhupura, Kasur, and Sialkot, while landslides could disrupt road access in upper Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Murree, Galliyat, Kashmir, and Gilgit-Baltistan throughout the forecast period.

In Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa, rain and thunderstorms are expected in regions including Chitral, Dir, Swat, Kohistan, Shangla, Battagram, Mansehra, Abbottabad, Haripur, Buner, Malakand, Bajaur, Mohmand, Khyber, Peshawar, Swabi, Nowshera, Mardan, Charsadda, Kurram, Orakzai, and Kohat from September 26 to October 1.&nbsp;

Heavy rainfall is anticipated from September 27 to October 1 in Hangu, Bannu, Lakki Marwat, Waziristan, and Dera Ismail Khan, with occasional breaks in precipitation.

In Punjab, the Met Office forecasts rain with thundershowers in Islamabad/Rawalpindi, Murree, Galliyat, Attock, Chakwal, Tala Gang, Jhelum, Mandi Bahauddin, Gujrat, Gujranwala, Lahore, Sheikhupura, Sialkot, Narowal, Hafizabad, Wazirabad from September 26 to October 1.&nbsp;

Heavy rains accompanied by thundershowers are expected in Sahiwal, Jhang, Toba Tek Singh, Nankana Sahib, Khushab, Sargodha, Mianwali, Chiniot, Faisalabad, Okara, Pakpattan, Kasur, and Bhakkar from September 27 to October 1.

In Azad Kashmir, rain with thundershowers is projected in Neelum Valley, Muzaffarabad, Rawalakot, Poonch, Hattian, Bagh, Haveli, Sudhanoti, Kotli, Bhimber, and Mirpur from September 26 to October 2.

The northern region of Gilgit-Baltistan is also expected to experience rain and thunderstorms from September 26 to October 2, particularly in Diamir, Astore, Skardu, Gilgit, Hunza, Ghanche, and Shigar.

Meanwhile, hot and dry weather is predicted for Balochistan and Sindh during this period. However, isolated rain, wind, and thunderstorms are expected in Mirpurkhas, Tharparkar, Umerkot, and surrounding areas from September 26 to 28.

The Met Office cautioned that windstorms and lightning could damage fragile structures, including mud houses, electric poles, billboards, vehicles, and solar panels.&nbsp;]]>
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			<title>Renowned Pakistani mountaineer Sadpara missing during K2 climb, rescue launched</title>
			<link>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2282898/renowned-pakistani-mountaineer-sadpara-missing-during-k2-clim-rescue-launched</link>
			<comments>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2282898/renowned-pakistani-mountaineer-sadpara-missing-during-k2-clim-rescue-launched#comments</comments>
			<pubDate>Sat, 06 Feb 21 10:06:22 +0500</pubDate>
			<dc:creator>
				<![CDATA[Our Correspondent]]>
			</dc:creator>
			<category><![CDATA[Pakistan]]></category>
			<guid isPermaLink="false">https://tribune.com.pk/?p=2282898</guid>
			<description>
				<![CDATA[Rescue helicopter asked to fly as high as possible to maximise chances of locating missing climbers]]>
			</description>
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				<![CDATA[Renowned Pakistani mountaineer Muhammad Ali Sadpara &mdash; along with climbers from Iceland and Chile &mdash; is reported to be missing during his winter climb on K2 and contact with the 3-member expedition has not been established since yesterday.

Shigar district Assistant Commissioner Waqas Johar told The Express Tribune on Saturday that a rescue operation has now been launched to locate the missing climbers and high altitude porters are on the way to Camp-1 in this connection. &ldquo;They will spend the night there and will start their search operation by tomorrow morning,&rdquo; he added.

Sajid Sadpara, Ali&rsquo;s son, is now descending from Camp-1, said Johar. &ldquo;Unfortunately, no news about the missing climbers yet,&rdquo; he added.

The Alpine Adventure Guides also confirmed the development on Twitter.




For Search &amp; rescue mission the pilot has been instructed to take the flight up as maximum as possible, it&rsquo;s very low temperature and 35+ KM wind above 6500m. At the basecamp, we have prepared oxygen bottles, high foods, masks, regulators for 2 Pakistani climbers (HAP). pic.twitter.com/GQNqG4ifUI
&mdash; Alpine Adventure Guides (@Alpine_Pakistan) February 6, 2021



&nbsp;

The tweet added that the rescue mission has been asked to take the helicopter as high as possible to maximise chances of finding the missing climbers.

However, Gilgit-Baltistan Home Secretary Muhammad Ali Randhawa later said that the high altitude porters had returned back to K2 Base Camp along with Sajjid Sadpara, Ali&rsquo;s son. &ldquo;They will discuss with other fellow climbers and then decide their next strategy of search operation,&rdquo; he said in a tweet.




The high altitude porters have returned back to K2 Base Camp along with sajjid Sadpara. They will discuss with other fellow climbers and then decide their next strategy of search operation . #K2WinterSummit2021
&mdash; Muhammad Ali Randhawa (@RandhawaAli) February 6, 2021



&nbsp;

Sajid had to earlier abort his ascent due to a malfunctioning oxygen regulator and descended to Camp 3. On Friday evening, he went out to search for the other team members but did not find any trace of them.




I just got in contact with Sajid at C3. He went out to check if there is any trace of them. He hasn&#39;t saw any lights or any movement. He has food,sleeping bag and he is holding tight. We&#39;ll publish the news as soon as he informs us.#k2winterexpedition2021@john_snorri
&mdash; Muhammad Ali Sadpara (@ali_sadpara) February 5, 2021



&nbsp;

Sadpara is a Pakistani mountaineer and has proudly hoisted the country&#39;s flag on eight peaks. He was also part of the team which successfully achieved the first-ever winter summit on Nanga Parbat in 2016.

Earlier, a Bulgarian mountaineer fell to his death during another expedition, his team said Friday.

Seven Summit Treks &mdash; a trekking company leading the expedition &mdash; said Atanas Skatov, 42, fell as he was changing ropes during his descent to basecamp.

The Alpine Club of Pakistan also confirmed the incident, saying his body was later recovered and flown by a Pakistani military helicopter to the nearby city of Skardu.

Skatov is the second climber to die on K2&#39;s slopes this season after a Spanish mountaineer fell to his death last month.

A third climber &mdash; Russian-American Alex Goldfarb &mdash; also died on a nearby mountain during an acclimatising mission ahead of a bid to scale Broad Peak in January.

Winds on K2&#39;s peak can blow at more than 200 kilometres per hour (125 miles per hour) and temperatures drop to minus 60 degrees Celsius (minus 76 Fahrenheit).

With Pakistan&#39;s borders open and with few other places to go, this winter an unprecedented four teams totalling around 60 climbers have converged on the mountain, more than all previous expeditions put together.

Unlike Mount Everest, which has been topped by thousands of climbers young and old, K2 is much less travelled.]]>
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			<title>First NGMS spectrum auction for AJK, G-B held in Islamabad</title>
			<link>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2322484/first-ngms-spectrum-auction-for-ajk-g-b-held-in-islamabad</link>
			<comments>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2322484/first-ngms-spectrum-auction-for-ajk-g-b-held-in-islamabad#comments</comments>
			<pubDate>Wed, 29 Sep 21 06:36:23 +0500</pubDate>
			<dc:creator>
				<![CDATA[Our Correspondent]]>
			</dc:creator>
			<category><![CDATA[Pakistan]]></category>
			<guid isPermaLink="false">https://tribune.com.pk/?p=2322484</guid>
			<description>
				<![CDATA[Total revenue generated from spectrum auction process stands at over $30 million]]>
			</description>
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				<![CDATA[The first cellular spectrum auction for Next Generation Mobile Services (NGMS) in Azad Jammu &amp; Kashmir (AJK) and Gilgit-Baltistan (G-B) was successfully held on Wednesday at the&nbsp;Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA)&#39;s headquarters in Islamabad.

According to a press release issued by the authority, the electronic auction was participated in by two operators, CMPak (Zong)&nbsp;and PMCL (Jazz) for the 1,800 MHz band.

The electronic auction went up to 18 rounds and was concluded by declaring Zong as the winner of 10 MHz (2 blocks of 5 MHz) in 1,800 MHz band against the price of $14.398 million.

The communique further added that the spectrum sold in the 1,800 MHz band was 85 per cent of the total offered spectrum in the said band for AJK and G-B.

Furthermore, Telenor, Ufone and Zong have also won 1.2 MHz in 1,800 MHz band.

Telenor Pakistan was declared a winner in the 2,100 MHz band for a spectrum of 15 MHz against the set base price, the press release added. The spectrum sold in 2100 MHz band is 50 pc of the total offered spectrum in the said band, it said.

Read&nbsp;High-speed internet to boost work from home

The total revenue generated from this spectrum auction process for AJK &amp; GB stood at over $30 million.

&ldquo;PTA completed the auction process with the assistance of internationally reputed consultant JV Telconet / Frontier Economics who was on-board since April 2021, and conducted thorough consultation with cellular industry and other stakeholders,&rdquo; the press release stated, adding that the federal government constituted an Auction Advisory Committee in October 2020 under the chairmanship of (then) finance minister.

The Policy Directive was issued on August&nbsp;11, 2021 under which the PTA initiated the process for fair and transparent spectrum auction process ensuring consumer interests, the communique stated.

It concluded that the addition of the spectrum would help Cellular Mobile Operators (CMOs) to provide better data and voice services in the two regions currently being focused on the promotion of tourism.]]>
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				    <img src="https://i.tribune.com.pk/media/images/1021903-telecomFarooqcopy-1451929078/1021903-telecomFarooqcopy-1451929078.jpg" class="featured_image"/>
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			<title>Historic K2 team make it back safely to base camp in G-B</title>
			<link>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2280323/historic-k2-team-make-it-back-safely-to-base-camp-in-g-b</link>
			<comments>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2280323/historic-k2-team-make-it-back-safely-to-base-camp-in-g-b#comments</comments>
			<pubDate>Sun, 17 Jan 21 17:30:41 +0500</pubDate>
			<dc:creator>
				<![CDATA[AFP]]>
			</dc:creator>
			<category><![CDATA[Pakistan]]></category>
			<guid isPermaLink="false">https://tribune.com.pk/?p=2280323</guid>
			<description>
				<![CDATA[All 10 Nepali climbers are in good health and relaxing, says G-B govt spokesperson Faizullah Firaq]]>
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				<![CDATA[The triumphant team of Nepali climbers who made history when they became the first to summit Pakistan&#39;s K2 in winter arrived safely back at base camp on Sunday, officials said.

The 10 climbers reached the top of the world&rsquo;s second-highest mountain on Saturday, the last peak above 8,000 metres (26,000 feet) to be conquered in wintertime.

&quot;All the 10 Nepali climbers arrived in the base camp this afternoon. They are in good health and relaxing,&quot; Faizullah Firaq, a spokesperson for the Gilgit Baltistan government, told AFP.

One of the successful climbers, Nirmal Purja, who is also known as Nimsdai, posted on social media: &quot;The full team are now back... All safe and sound... It has been an overwhelming journey.&quot;



PHOTO: FACEBOOK/@NimsPurja

Thaneshwor Guragain from Seven Summit Treks, a leading mountaineering company behind one of the expeditions, said more climbers are still hoping to reach the top.

Unlike Mount Everest, which has been topped by thousands of climbers young and old, K2 is a much lonelier place. But this winter, dozens of adventurers converged on the mountain hoping to take the record.

K2 is known as the &quot;Savage Mountain&quot; because of its punishing conditions: winds can blow at more than 200 kilometres per hour (125 miles per hour), and temperatures can drop to minus 60 degrees Celsius (minus 76 Fahrenheit).

Also Read:&nbsp;Pakistan felicitates Nepalese climbers on first winter K2 ascent

The descent can be just as dangerous as going up.

Saturday&#39;s successful summit was overshadowed by the death of a Spanish climber from another team, Sergi Mingote, lower down the perilous peak.

His body was evacuated from base camp on Sunday to nearby Skardu city by an army helicopter, the Alpine Club of Pakistan&#39;s Karrar Haidri told AFP.

Mingote was at an intermediate camp and fell on his way down to the base camp, injuring his leg, according to his team.

Purja said his team were &quot;deeply saddened to hear that we have lost a friend&quot; and added, &quot;Rest in peace my brother!&quot;

The 10 Nepali climbers had been spread across different expeditions at the start, but formed a new group in order to claim the summit in Nepal&#39;s name, singing the national anthem as they reached the top.

Despite being famed for their climbing expertise, there has never before been a Nepali climber on the first winter ascent of a peak higher than 8,000 metres.]]>
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			<title>Bulgarian climber dies during expedition on Pakistan's K2</title>
			<link>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2282795/bulgarian-climber-dies-during-expedition-on-pakistans-k2</link>
			<comments>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2282795/bulgarian-climber-dies-during-expedition-on-pakistans-k2#comments</comments>
			<pubDate>Fri, 05 Feb 21 14:30:44 +0500</pubDate>
			<dc:creator>
				<![CDATA[AFP]]>
			</dc:creator>
			<category><![CDATA[Pakistan]]></category>
			<guid isPermaLink="false">https://tribune.com.pk/?p=2282795</guid>
			<description>
				<![CDATA[Atanas Skatov’s body flown by a Pakistani military helicopter to the nearby city of Skardu]]>
			</description>
			<content:encoded>
				<![CDATA[A Bulgarian mountaineer fell to his death during an expedition on Pakistan&#39;s K2, his team said Friday, the second person to die on the world&#39;s second highest mountain in weeks.

Seven Summit Treks &mdash; a trekking company leading the expedition &mdash; said Atanas Skatov, 42, fell as he was changing ropes during his descent to basecamp.

&quot;[It] seems some errors occurred and he fell down. We had fixed the mountain with new ropes&quot; which were not broken, Seven Summit Treks said in a statement.

The Alpine Club of Pakistan also confirmed the incident, saying his body was later recovered and flown by a Pakistani military helicopter to the nearby city of Skardu.

&quot;We pay homage to the strength and spirit of our climber -- his feat and his relentless will to (reach) the top will never be forgotten!&quot; the Bulgarian foreign ministry said in a statement.




The Bulgarian Atanas Skatov died after suffering a significant fall when he descended to Camp 3 K2, after a night with very bad weather conditions. pic.twitter.com/tnqFkf066C
&mdash; Moises Lopez (@chapoisat) February 5, 2021



&nbsp;

Skatov is the second climber to die on K2&#39;s slopes this season after a Spanish mountaineer fell to his death last month.

A third climber &mdash; Russian-American Alex Goldfarb &mdash; also died on a nearby mountain during an acclimatising mission ahead of a bid to scale Broad Peak in January.

Skatov&#39;s death comes just weeks after a team of Nepali climbers made history on K2 when they became the first to scale it in winter.

K2 is known as the &quot;Savage Mountain&quot; because of its punishing conditions: winds can blow at more than 200 kilometres per hour (125 miles per hour), and temperatures can drop to minus 60 degrees Celsius (minus 76 Fahrenheit).

With Pakistan&#39;s borders open and with few other places to go, this winter an unprecedented four teams totalling around 60 climbers have converged on the mountain, more than all previous expeditions put together.

Unlike Mount Everest, which has been topped by thousands of climbers young and old, K2 is much less travelled.]]>
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			<title>Body of missing Russian-American climber found near K2</title>
			<link>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2280557/body-of-missing-russian-american-climber-found-near-k2</link>
			<comments>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2280557/body-of-missing-russian-american-climber-found-near-k2#comments</comments>
			<pubDate>Tue, 19 Jan 21 09:20:50 +0500</pubDate>
			<dc:creator>
				<![CDATA[Our Correspondent]]>
			</dc:creator>
			<category><![CDATA[Pakistan]]></category>
			<guid isPermaLink="false">https://tribune.com.pk/?p=2280557</guid>
			<description>
				<![CDATA[Photographs of the climber's body were sent to his family for positive verification]]>
			</description>
			<content:encoded>
				<![CDATA[The body of American-Russian climber,&nbsp;Alex Goldfarb, has been found in the Gilgit-Baltistan region after a day&#39;s search as rescue attempts were hampered by poor weather.&nbsp;

Goldfarb was attempting to climb Broad Peak, located around 8km away from K2. Authorities have also confirmed that the body of the climber has been recovered.&nbsp;

According to a local tourist company,&nbsp;Goldfarb had reached the summit of Pastore peak, at an altitude of more than 6,000 metres with his fellow climber Zoltan Slanko.&nbsp;

Read:&nbsp;Nepalese climbers create history by reaching K2&#39;s summit in winter

Slanko then decided to return due to poor weather, however,&nbsp;Goldfarb continued with his journey. His last radio message was also received from around that location. No further radio contact was established with the climber.

Photographs of the climber&#39;s body were sent to his family for positive verification.

A total of 58 climbers from 18 countries, including five women, took part in the campaign to conquer K2 during the current winter season. So far, three climbers have been injured and are out of the expedition. While another climber, Sergio Mengot, fell during the expedition and later&nbsp;succumbed to his injuries.]]>
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			<title>PML-N issues white paper on ‘rigging’ in G-B polls</title>
			<link>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2279990/pml-n-issues-white-paper-on-rigging-in-g-b-polls</link>
			<comments>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2279990/pml-n-issues-white-paper-on-rigging-in-g-b-polls#comments</comments>
			<pubDate>Thu, 14 Jan 21 18:48:21 +0500</pubDate>
			<dc:creator>
				<![CDATA[Khalid Mehmood]]>
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			<category><![CDATA[Pakistan]]></category><category><![CDATA[Gilgit-Baltistan]]></category>
			<guid isPermaLink="false">https://tribune.com.pk/?p=2279990</guid>
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				<![CDATA[Says matter will now be decided by the PDM]]>
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				<![CDATA[The Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) on Thursday issued a white paper on the alleged rigging in the Gilgit-Baltistan (G-B) Legislative Assembly polls and warned the incumbent regime of &ldquo;dire consequences&rdquo; if &ldquo;such practice&rdquo; was adopted in the Azad Kashmir polls.

&ldquo;A &lsquo;selected&rsquo; government has been imposed through undemocratic means in Gilgit-Baltistan,&rdquo; PML-N Secretary General Ahsan Iqbal said while addressing a news conference in the federal capital.

He was flanked by other party leaders including Khurram Dastgir, Tariq Fazal Chaudhry, Hafiz Hafeezur Rehman and Marriyum Aurangzeb.

Ahsan said he had repeatedly warned that G-B strategically and politically was a &ldquo;sensitive&rdquo; region and that it was absolutely crucial to hold &ldquo;free and fair elections&rdquo; according to the wishes of the people there.

He alleged that every code of conduct marked by the election commission was violated during the G-B polls as the premier and the ministers visited the region, which he said was against the law.

&ldquo;Yet, the PTI could not even get simple majority and had to &lsquo;beg&rsquo; the independents to join them to make the government. The long-term results of this could be devastating for the country,&rdquo; he said.

The PML-N leader warned the ruling party of resorting to &ldquo;unfair means&rdquo; during the elections in Azad Kashmir and maintained that the PML-N would guard the sanctity of the vote like &ldquo;lions&rdquo; at all the polling stations and will not let the mandate of the people get &ldquo;robbed again&rdquo;.

G-B former chief minister Hafiz Hafeezur Rehman said that they were handing over the white paper to the PDM, which would now fight their case.

The PTI had emerged victorious on 10 seats in the G-B elections which were held in November last year. Seven seats were won by independent candidates while the JUI and MWM secured one seat each.

The PPP and PML-N &mdash; both of which had levelled allegations of rigging &mdash; held five and three seats, respectively.

PTI formed government in the region after the independent candidates joined the ruling party and seat adjustment with the MWM.

Khalid Khurshid Khan of the PTI was elected as chief minister of the G-B while PPP&rsquo;s Amjad Hussain as leader of the opposition.]]>
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			<title>Federal govt mulls over uplift package for G-B</title>
			<link>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2279852/federal-govt-mulls-over-uplift-package-for-g-b</link>
			<comments>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2279852/federal-govt-mulls-over-uplift-package-for-g-b#comments</comments>
			<pubDate>Wed, 13 Jan 21 18:59:15 +0500</pubDate>
			<dc:creator>
				<![CDATA[Irshad Ansari]]>
			</dc:creator>
			<category><![CDATA[Pakistan]]></category>
			<guid isPermaLink="false">https://tribune.com.pk/?p=2279852</guid>
			<description>
				<![CDATA[More than a dozen sectors of region will be included in development scheme]]>
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				<![CDATA[The federal government along with the Gilgit-Baltistan administration mulled over announcing a comprehensive development package for more than a dozen sectors of the region, including power, infrastructure, tourism, trade, e-commerce, agriculture, livestock, fisheries, Information Technology, telecommunication and health.

According to sources, other sectors of G-B, including management of hospital, minerals, small industries, development of private sector, women and youth, eradication of poverty, social welfare and education were also part of the package.

The decision was taken in a meeting chaired by Federal Minister for Planning, Development, Reforms and Special Initiatives Asad Umar and attended by G-B Chief Minister Khalid Khursheed, according to the source.

Under the Planning Commission deputy chairman, an inter-ministerial committee was constituted to prepare the development plan while an apex committee led by G-B chief minister was formed for execution and supervision of the projects.

During the course of meeting, Umar noted the uplift of underdeveloped areas of the region was neglected for long, while it was one of the top priorities of the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaaf government.

He vowed the federal government along with the administration of the region would devise a joint strategy for people of G-B and directed the departments concerned to work on probable projects under a public-private partnership.

On the occasion, the G-B chief minister lauded the initiative taken by the federal government for people of the region and hoped that projects under the uplift package would commence and complete in due time.]]>
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			<title>‘Efforts afoot’ to set up SEZ in G-B</title>
			<link>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2279395/efforts-afoot-to-set-up-sez-in-g-b</link>
			<comments>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2279395/efforts-afoot-to-set-up-sez-in-g-b#comments</comments>
			<pubDate>Sun, 10 Jan 21 10:16:47 +0500</pubDate>
			<dc:creator>
				<![CDATA[APP]]>
			</dc:creator>
			<category><![CDATA[Gilgit-Baltistan]]></category>
			<guid isPermaLink="false">https://tribune.com.pk/?p=2279395</guid>
			<description>
				<![CDATA[Six of the independent candidates have joined PTI after the election]]>
			</description>
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				<![CDATA[Minister for Kashmir Affairs and Gilgit-Baltistan Ali Amin Gandapur on Saturday said the federal government had acquired land for setting up a special economic zone in G-B under the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor project.

&ldquo;Efforts are afoot to start development work on the special economic zone,&rdquo; Gandapur said while talking to a delegation of the G-B&rsquo;s ministers, who called on him here to discuss the future strategy for carrying out uplift work in the area. The delegation comprised of multiple ministers of the G-B government &ndash; including Wildlife and Forest Minister Raja Muhammad Zakirya Khan, Excise and Taxation Minister Haji Shah Baig, Tourism Minister Raja Naseem, Food Minister Shams Lone, Local Government Minister Abdul Hameed, Health Minister Gulbar Khan, and others.During the meeting, the federal minister called for extensive efforts to fulfill the huge mandate, given by the people of G-B to the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf in the recent elections.

In the G-B elections, held in November 2020, the PTI bagged 22 of 33 seats of the G-B Assembly, according to the region&rsquo;s election commission. In the elections, the PTI emerged victorious on 10 seats, while seven were won by independent candidates. The JUI and Majlis Wahdatul Muslimeen (MWM) won one seat apiece.

Six of the independent candidates have joined PTI after the election and the party already had a seat adjustment arrangement with the MWM.Gandapur stressed that both the federal and G-B governments would follow an all-inclusive strategy to achieve sustainable development in the area. He said that more focus would be given to major sectors &ndash; including education, tourism, health, and hydel power. It would eventually, lay the foundation for a prosperous G-B, he added.The minister claimed that the federal government had provided massive funds for the G-B development in the past and had a plan to invest billions of rupees in its various sectors, including health, education, and tourism for their uplift.

Moreover, he said the move would result in bringing &ldquo;revolutionary changes&rdquo; in those sectors, and to create massive job opportunities in the area.On the occasion, GB ministers gave a detailed briefing to Gandapur on their ministries concerned. They expressed the resolve for improving their ministries&rsquo; performance through collaboration. It was highlighted that such an approach would not only help provide basic amenities to the people of GB but also ensure transforming the area into an economic hub of the country.Gandapur assured the ministers of full cooperation of his ministry and the federal government for the purpose. Muhammad Atif, a social worker from Diamer, made the announcement for formally joining the PTI on the occasion.&nbsp;]]>
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