Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has given a one-year deadline for the completion of the much-awaited 100-megawatt solar power project in Gilgit-Baltistan (G-B), pledging the federal government’s full financial support to make it happen.
The premier kept on saying that he would personally monitor progress, calling it a “game-changer” for the region’s long-standing energy woes.
A Lifeline for an Energy-Starved Region
Chairing a high-level review meeting, the prime minister highlighted that 18 to 20 hour of daily load-shedding had become a harsh reality for G-B residents.
“Solarisation is the most practical, immediate solution for remote, mountainous areas like Gilgit-Baltistan,” he said, stressing that the infrastructure must be climate-resilient and built to last.
The plan involves a hybrid approach – strengthening both solar and hydropower supply – to ensure uninterrupted electricity, especially during extreme winters when power demand peaks.
Extensive Solar Network Planned
Briefing the PM, officials revealed an ambitious roadmap:
• 6 solar parks in Gilgit
• Eight in Skardu
• Six in Diamer
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Moreover, solar panels are expected to be installed on
- 234 government buildings in Gilgit
- 179 in Skardu
- 66 in Diamer
Along with a real-time monitoring system for battery backups to guarantee efficiency.
Energy Minister Awais Leghari is going to be the head of the Steering Committee to oversee execution, with strict transparency and international quality standards promised at every stage.
Economic & Social Impact
If the project is finalized or completed on time, it could help massively in
- Cutting electricity costs
- Reduce reliance on expensive diesel generators
- Open new opportunities for small businesses, tourism operators, and local industries.
For households, it indicates that an end is near for the frustrating power cuts that disrupt daily life.
Linked to Broader Climate Preparedness
Separately, in a meeting with NDMA Chairman Lt Gen Inam Haider Malik, PM Shehbaz ordered stronger coordination with provincial governments for flood and disaster response. He also stressed the need to swiftly operationalize G-B’s early warning system and ensuring timely alerts during extreme weather.
With the federal government’s commitment and a clear deadline, the solar project is offering G-B residents hope for a brighter, more sustainable future – quite literally.