Groundswell of support: G-B CM receives green signal for projects

PM assures additional funds will be provided if required

GILGIT: Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif has asked Gilgit-Baltistan Chief Minister Hafeezur Rahman to go ahead with development plans and has also vowed to increase the budget in this regard if required.

Speaking to Rahman over the telephone on Friday night, the PM said the Rs50 billion Gilgit-Skardu Road project will soon be tendered and the federal government plans to provide additional financial support if the need arises.

Climate of peace

The prime minister voiced his satisfaction over the peaceful environment in the region and asked the CM to work for the welfare of the people.

As part of the government’s policy to boost tourism in the region, the PM asked the regional government to submit a feasibility report on chairlift projects in Deosai plains, Rakaposhi and Rama Astore.

“Nawaz also enquired about the progress on ongoing hydropower projects and cancer and cardiac hospitals and assured support for their early completion,” Rahman told reporters in Gilgit on Saturday. “We will submit a detailed progress report to the prime minister now,” he said.

Up to speed

The chief minister, who recently visited Germany, briefed Nawaz about his visit and hoped the trip would prove to be fruitful. Rahman also updated the PM about schemes his government was going to undertake over the coming months.

He also told Nawaz about a clean drinking water project that will cost Rs1 billion. The PM’s telephone call came days before the death anniversary of Saifur Rahman, the CM’s brother and founder of PML-N in Gilgit.

Published in The Express Tribune, March 27^th, 2016.