CM Calls for Boosting Tourism, Heritage Protection & Food Safety in Gilgit-Baltistan

Gilgit (Web Desk)- Caretaker Chief Minister of Gilgit-Baltistan, Justice (R) Yaar Muhammad, while speaking during a departmental briefing given by the Tourism Department, said that Gilgit-Baltistan holds a unique position in terms of tourism and, with proper attention, can be developed into a major hub for domestic and international tourism.

He emphasized the need to work for the preservation and promotion of local culture. He stated that several important archaeological and heritage sites exist across the region, and special measures should be taken for their protection and research. The archaeological remains affected by the Diamer-Bhasha Dam should be preserved with the cooperation of WAPDA.

The caretaker chief minister said that Gilgit-Baltistan has vast tourism potential and stressed the importance of providing better facilities to national and international tourists, discovering new tourist destinations, and focusing on their development. He also highlighted the need for special initiatives to promote winter tourism.

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He added that the construction of the Astore–Shounter Road and the Gilgit–Chitral Expressway will mark the beginning of a new era of tourism in Gilgit-Baltistan. The tourism sector is of great importance and can play a key role in boosting economic activities and accelerating the development process in the region.

Justice (R) Yaar Muhammad further stated that the Food Authority must be made fully functional immediately to curb the sale of substandard food items in all markets and bazaars of Gilgit-Baltistan, and directed the relevant departments to take necessary actions.