ISLAMABAD: Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif on Wednesday inaugurated the Babur Model Village in Ghizer, Gilgit-Baltistan, for families affected by the 2022 floods.
The village, spanning 110 kanals and featuring 62 homes, is part of a larger development project that includes the 216-kilometer Gilgit-Shandur highway.
At the inauguration, PM Shehbaz handed over property documents to flood-affected families, granting them ownership of their new homes.
Reflecting on his visit to the region in August 2022, when devastating floods hit, the Prime Minister expressed satisfaction with the reconstruction progress and promised essential services, including healthcare, education, and utilities, for the residents.
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He also emphasized that the model village would have a school, dispensary, and sports ground, with third-party quality checks to ensure high standards.
The dispensary will include ultrasound, X-ray, and maternity services. Additionally, PM Shehbaz increased the endowment fund for Qandeel, a young flood victim, from Rs 5 million to Rs 6.7 million.
New Development Initiatives for Gilgit-Baltistan
Earlier, in a special meeting with the Gilgit-Baltistan Cabinet, PM Shehbaz announced several new initiatives for the region.
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He confirmed that 100 MW of electricity would be supplied to the area and launched a one billion rupee endowment fund for talented students from Baltistan and Karakoram universities. The Prime Minister also revealed plans to introduce Daanish Schools in the region.
PM Shehbaz emphasized that the development of Gilgit-Baltistan is a top priority, highlighting the federal government’s ongoing efforts to promote tourism and infrastructure in the area, including Qatari investment in the tourism sector.
Gilgit-Baltistan Chief Minister Haji Dilbar Khan thanked the Prime Minister for the federal government’s support, especially in the aftermath of the 2022 floods.