GILGIT – Prime Minister Imran Khan on Friday announced a developmentpackage worth Rs370 billion for Gilgit-Baltistan.

Addressing the ceremony in Gilgit, Prime Minister Imran Khan said it wasthe first time that such a big amount would be used for the development ofthis beautiful region.

The premier said the development package envisages hydel power generationand transmission projects, connectivity projects for tourism, youth skilland scholarship program, up-gradation of health system and water andsanitation projects.

“We will also support the development of small and medium enterprises inthe area besides focusing on expansion of its infrastructure. It will beour effort to enable Gilgit airport receive international flights,” headded.

Highlighting the immense and diverse tourism potential of Gilgit-Baltistan,the Prime Minister said this development package will prepare the region toattract the tourists which will benefit not only the local people but thewhole country. He was confident that exploiting GB’s tourism potential willmake it self-reliant.

He however emphasized the need for promotion of tourism in a planned mannerto cultivate its true benefits. He said the tourism in the region shouldnot affect the forests and the mountains. He said the introduction of localgovernment system in the region will help take forward the region.

The Prime Minister reaffirmed his commitment to transform the country bywaging a successful struggle against the corrupt mafia. He said it is thefirst time that this mafia is being brought under the ambit of law.