GB Government Announces Police Expansion, Road Transfer to NHA, and Service Reforms

Gilgit-(Musab Khaliq/News Desk)-The caretaker cabinet of Gilgit-Baltistan, chaired by Caretaker Chief Minister Justice (R) Yaar Muhammad Khan, held a meeting followed by a media briefing where key decisions on governance, security, infrastructure, and public service delivery were announced.

Caretaker Minister for Information Ghulam Abbas, Minister for Interior Sajad Ali Baig, Minister for Finance and Planning & Development Colonel (R) Abrar Ismail, Minister for Forests Hafiz Sharaft-ud-Din, and spokesperson for the Chief Minister Shabbir Mir briefed the media.

The cabinet lauded diplomatic efforts for achieving a ceasefire between the United States and Iran amid the ongoing Middle East tensions, and appreciated Pakistan’s role in facilitating dialogue and peace efforts. The cabinet also paid tribute to Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and Field Marshal Asim Munir for their contributions.

The cabinet approved the release of Rs 300 million in emergency funds for compensation of damages to government property during incidents reported on March 1 in Gilgit-Baltistan.

It was also decided to hand over nine roads spanning 461 kilometers to the National Highway Authority (NHA) for maintenance and repair. Locals will be exempted from toll taxes on these routes.

The cabinet approved renaming the Counter Terrorism Department as the Counter Terrorism Unit, along with approval for recruitment of 600 new police personnel. Regulations for recruitment in grades 7 to 14 were also approved.

The meeting expressed sorrow over the March 1 incidents in Gilgit and Skardu, stating that legal proceedings will follow the findings of a judicial inquiry commission. Authorities were directed to provide full support to the commission.

Officials emphasized that no innocent person will be targeted and action will only be taken based on solid evidence, ensuring justice through due process.

The cabinet was also briefed on the establishment of “Aasaan Khidmat Centres” under the concept of “one-window services,” aimed at providing multiple government services under one roof. A federal delegation is expected to visit Gilgit-Baltistan soon in this regard.

Additionally, improvements to the fuel subsidy policy for motorcycle users were approved to ensure better and more effective implementation.