Seven GB roads set for federal takeover to boost tourism
• 464km of thoroughfares to be rehabilitated, maintained by NHA • Federal cabinet to consider proposal after approval by GB cabinet • Roads frequently damaged by landslides and flash floods • Tour operators, hotel owners and transporters welcome PM’s initiatives GILGIT: The federal government has identified seven roads spanning 464 kilometres across Gilgit-Baltistan (GB) for federalisation under…
The federal government has selected seven roads across Gilgit-Baltistan (GB) totaling 464 kilometers for federalization in an effort to bolster tourism under Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif's initiative, according to an official of the National Highway Authority (NHA). These roads include the Astore-Chilim Chowki Road, Deosai-Skardu Road, Skardu-Khaplu Road, Skardu-Thorgu-Shigar Road, Karakoram Highway-Naltar to Satrangi Lake Road, and two additional routes currently under construction.
The NHA will be responsible for constructing, widening, rehabilitating, and maintaining these roads to enhance connectivity and promote tourism in the mountainous region. The proposal has already been approved by the GB cabinet, and a memorandum of understanding (MoU) has been signed. It comes as the government aims to strengthen road connectivity in the region, where difficult terrain and limited road access hinder tourism development.
The NHA will handle the development and upkeep of these seven road links, including construction, widening, rehabilitation, and maintenance, with the federal government providing the necessary funds. Tour operators, hotel owners, and transporters have welcomed the initiative, citing frequent road blockages due to landslides, floods, and other natural disasters as major challenges to tourism.
They hope improved road maintenance and connectivity will enhance the region's appeal and reduce the negative impact of disrupted travel plans.
Written by urgent.news from Dawn - Pakistan's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
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