G-B CM terms Rs4b flood aid insufficient

Gilgit-Baltistan Chief Minister Haji Gulbar Khan on Thursday said Rs4 billion relief package announced by Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif was no longer sufficient, as fresh floods after the premier's recent visit caused further devastation across the region.

Speaking at a ceremony where compensation cheques were handed over to the families of flood victims, the chief minister lauded the premier's earlier visit to G-B and thanked him for announcing the relief package. However, he added that the situation has since worsened, with more villages hit and damages multiplying.

"The prime minister's support is commendable and we are grateful for his timely announcement of Rs4 billion," the chief minister said.

"But after his visit, additional floods struck our communities, destroying homes, bridges and livelihoods. The losses now far exceed the announced assistance."

The event was also attended by Federal Minister for Kashmir Affairs and G-B Engineer Amir Muqam, and provincial cabinet members. Relatives of those who died in the floods were provided compensation cheques under the government's relief measures.

Muqam, who travelled through remote valleys on foot to meet the victims earlier the day, reiterated the government's solidarity with the people of G-B and pledged that further assistance would be mobilised.