PM Orders Completion of 100 MW Solar Project in Gilgit-Baltistan Within a Year

Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif has instructed that the 100-megawatt solar power project in Gilgit-Baltistan be completed within the next 12 months.

Chairing a review meeting in Islamabad on the project’s progress, the Prime Minister announced that he would personally monitor its development. He emphasized that the initiative will be fast-tracked to provide the region with a consistent supply of affordable and environmentally friendly electricity.

Highlighting the project’s importance, Shehbaz Sharif directed that its infrastructure be built to withstand climate challenges. He assured that the federal government will fully finance the scheme, which aims to eliminate prolonged power shortages in Gilgit-Baltistan.

Calling solar energy the most viable option for the region, the Prime Minister said it will help end the 18–20 hours of daily load shedding faced by residents. The project, he added, will also contribute to Pakistan’s renewable energy mix, protecting the country from the adverse effects of climate change.

He instructed that electricity from both hydel and solar sources should be supplied to Gilgit-Baltistan to prevent outages during extreme weather. He also stressed the need for complete transparency in all stages of construction.

Minister for Power Sardar Awais Ahmad Khan Leghari was appointed as Chairman of the Steering Committee overseeing the project.

Officials briefed the meeting that the plan includes building six solar parks in Gilgit, eight in Skardu, and six in Diamer. Additionally, solar systems will be installed on 234 buildings in Gilgit, 179 in Skardu, and 66 in Diamer. The project will also incorporate battery backup and a real-time monitoring system.

The meeting reviewed the estimated cost, timeline, and adherence to international standards for the project.

During his recent visit to Gilgit, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif had already announced that the Executive Committee of the National Economic Council (ECNEC) would soon give the green light for the 100 MW power plants in the region.