Gilgit-Baltistan CM Announces Sweeping Reforms in Tourism, Transport, Drug Control and Glacier Protection

Gilgit:(Musab Khaliq/News Desk) Chief Minister of Gilgit-Baltistan, **Amjad Hussain Azar**, chaired separate departmental briefings by the Secretaries of Tourism and Excise & Taxation, directing wide-ranging reforms aimed at improving governance, promoting tourism, strengthening transport regulation, and protecting the environment.

During the Excise & Taxation briefing, the Chief Minister ordered the complete digitalization of vehicle registration across the province and the issuance of computerized number plates for all vehicles to improve regulation and enforcement. He also directed the department to standardize transportation rates for the movement of goods across all districts and ensure their implementation. Furthermore, he instructed authorities to take practical steps for the establishment of the Transport Directorate and the Narcotics Directorate.

Reaffirming the provincial government’s commitment to combating drug abuse, the Chief Minister announced a large-scale anti-narcotics crackdown to be launched soon in collaboration with the Anti-Narcotics Force (ANF) and other law enforcement agencies, emphasizing that the initiative aims to safeguard the future of the younger generation.

During the Tourism Department briefing, the Chief Minister highlighted Gilgit-Baltistan’s vast tourism potential and directed officials to introduce measures to attract more international tourists. He ordered the digitalization of the Tourism Department, stating that it would enhance transparency, governance, and departmental efficiency.

To minimize disruptions for tourists and travelers, the Chief Minister directed the Provincial Law Secretary to prepare legislation banning protests and sit-ins on major highways, including the Karakoram Highway, Jaglot-Skardu Road, Astore Valley Road, Gilgit-Ghizer Expressway, and Gilgit-Naltar Expressway. Deputy Commissioners across the province were instructed to enforce Section 144 where necessary, designate specific locations for protests, and take legal action against violators. Officials failing to prevent highway blockades will also be held accountable.

The Chief Minister instructed the Tourism Department to advertise all vacant positions in accordance with the provincial recruitment policy to improve departmental performance. He also proposed organizing a cultural event in Gilgit similar to Pakistan’s “Lok Virsa” festival to showcase the region’s rich heritage, culture, and tourist attractions.

To promote tourism and sports, he directed the organization of major events, including the Tour de Khunjerab cycling event, the Sarfaranga Rally in consultation with local communities, and Independence Day celebrations across all districts. He also called for programs to encourage local poets, writers, intellectuals, and musicians, while emphasizing the promotion of winter tourism through inter-provincial and inter-district sporting events.

The Chief Minister further announced plans to discourage unplanned construction through new legislation to preserve the natural beauty of Gilgit-Baltistan. He also declared that all polo grounds in the region would be recognized as cultural heritage sites and directed the Tourism Department and Deputy Commissioners to ensure their protection. To enhance tourist safety, scanners will be installed at all entry and exit points as well as airports across the province.

Separately, during a meeting with **Agostino Da Polenza**, President of **EVK2CNR**, and members of the organization, the Chief Minister praised EVK2CNR’s contributions to glacier conservation and climate change initiatives in Gilgit-Baltistan. He assured the organization of the provincial government’s continued support and announced plans to promote eco-tourism and strengthen glacier protection efforts.

He also stated that the provincial government would approach the federal government to facilitate the implementation of a proposed **Rs20 billion soft loan project** supported by EVK2CNR and the Italian government. Additionally, the Chief Minister announced the decision to establish a **Glacier Protection Authority**, with technical assistance from EVK2CNR experts, to ensure the long-term conservation of Gilgit-Baltistan’s glaciers.