ISLAMABAD: The development and prosperity of Gilgit-Baltistan have been top priorities for the federal government. In this regard, various development projects have been launched to promote the tourism sector, improve health facilities, enhance the education sector, and alleviate unemployment pressures in the region.
According to an official source, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has recently announced a series of major development projects for the remote areas of Gilgit-Baltistan (GB).He said that the current government is also focused on developing the road network and improving connectivity between remote areas to facilitate the local community. The local government is also upgrading basic health units in the far-flung areas of GB, he added.
He emphasized that tourism is a lucrative industry for the local community, and the GB government is providing training opportunities for the youth of the region. Tourism is the main source of income for the local population, as millions of tourists visit the area each year.
He commended the federal government’s efforts in promoting tourism and stressed the need for further development in this area.He proposed the establishment of camping sites and tourism facilitation centers across all provinces to facilitate tourists and promote local attractions.
Furthermore, he highlighted the importance of extensively promoting the Salam Pakistan portal, a dedicated platform designed to guide and assist tourists visiting Pakistan.He stressed the significance of leveraging technology to provide seamless experiences for travelers.
It is pertinent to mention that The Gilgit-Baltistan (GB) government has introduced new entry fees for vehicles and motorcycles entering the region as part of an initiative to regulate tourism and support sustainable development.
A notification issued by the administration outlines the new charges: tourist vehicles will now be subject to a fee of Rs2,000, while motorcycles entering GB will pay Rs500. These fees aim to manage the growing influx of visitors to the scenic region, renowned for its picturesque landscapes and high-altitude destinations.
The revenue generated from these charges will be allocated for maintaining infrastructure, waste management, and preserving the region’s natural beauty. With a surge in tourism putting strain on GB’s roads and facilities, these measures are seen as essential for ensuring the long-term sustainability of the region’s resources.
In addition to entry fees, the government has revised permit charges for mountaineering and trekking, capitalising on the rising interest in GB’s peaks and trails.
Officials said these changes reflect a broader commitment to sustainable tourism practices and responsible resource management, ensuring the region can accommodate increasing tourist numbers without compromising its ecological balance.
