ISLAMABAD: The government has announced plans to establish a 100 MW solar power project in Gilgit-Baltistan (GB) under the Public Sector Development Programme (PSDP), a move aimed at boosting sustainable energy and regional development.
In a meeting chaired by the Minister for Kashmir Affairs and Gilgit-Baltistan, officials outlined a phased approach to implementing the project, pending a feasibility study conducted by NESPAK as a government-to-government consultant. The project’s distribution will allocate 40 MW to Gilgit and 20 MW each to Skardu, Chilas, and Ghanche. The existing distribution infrastructure will facilitate electricity delivery.
The feasibility study, funded by the GB government, is expected to conclude by January 31, 2025, with tendering to follow by April 2025. The updated PC-1 will be submitted for approval to the Ministry of Kashmir Affairs & Gilgit-Baltistan (M/o KA&GB) and the Public Development Sector Implementation (PDSI). The project financing is proposed under the Prime Minister’s Special Package to address PSDP funding constraints.
An operations and maintenance (O&M) contract spanning three years will ensure long-term efficiency. The Minister for Kashmir Affairs emphasized that the project may proceed in phases, depending on funding availability, but will be implemented at full capacity.
In addition to energy developments, the meeting discussed the construction of a Pakistan Sports Board (PSB) Coaching Centre in Skardu. The Rs. 764 million project, approved by the Departmental Development Working Party (DDWP), includes a gymnasium, multipurpose hall, indoor games facilities, and a football ground. Future expansions will incorporate outdoor game facilities.
The GB government has allocated land for the coaching center, and a proposal to transfer project execution to GB authorities was supported to enhance efficiency and post-completion management. The Ministry of Inter-Provincial Coordination (M/o IPC) will finalize the tendering process within two months.
Other discussions included upgrading Lapidary Centers in Gilgit and Skardu using Rs. 300 million from the Export Development Fund (EDF). The Ministry of Commerce was urged to expedite approvals, and the GB government was advised to partner with reputable gemstone industry firms to bolster its case.
GB’s Additional Chief Secretary (Development) also reported on 477 ongoing development schemes prioritized for timely completion. A consultative session at MPD&SI will address future projects and the region’s Annual Development Plan (ADP) “throw forward” concerns.
These initiatives underline the government’s commitment to sustainable energy, sports infrastructure, and economic development in Gilgit-Baltistan.
Story by Mushtaq Ghumman
