Minister Ghulam Abbas Announces Transfer of 9 Highways to NHA

Skardu: (Web Desk) – Gilgit-Baltistan Information Minister Ghulam Abbas has announced plans to transfer nine major highways in the region to the National Highway Authority (NHA) to ensure better repair, maintenance, and improved travel conditions.

He clarified that while a formal Memorandum of Understanding has not yet been signed, practical steps are already underway to upgrade key road infrastructure. The initiative includes major routes such as Skardu–Khaplo Road, Skardu–Shigar Road, and Astore–Chalam Chowk Road. The move is expected to significantly improve connectivity for local communities while also promoting tourism across Gilgit-Baltistan.

Addressing public concerns, the minister assured that no toll tax or fees will be imposed on residents of Gilgit-Baltistan or vehicles registered in the region at any toll plazas, emphasizing that the decision prioritizes public convenience and aims to eliminate misunderstandings.

On employment, he revealed that recruitment for around 600 police positions will begin soon, noting that over 8,000 applications have already been received. He assured that the hiring process will be conducted transparently and strictly on merit, in line with directives from the Chief Minister.

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

Speaking on upcoming elections, Abbas stated that the government will fully adhere to the schedule set by the Election Commission and is prepared to implement its directives.

He also shared that accreditation cards for journalists in districts including Skardu will be issued shortly. Regarding digital media regulation, the minister said amendments are being made to the existing policy, following consultations with journalist bodies, press clubs, and unions. The revised policy, along with a formal code of conduct, is expected to be finalized and implemented soon to better regulate digital media in the region.

Gilgit-Baltistan Residents Exempted from Toll Tax

Skardu: Gilgit-Baltistan Information Minister Ghulam Abbas has announced that local residents of Gilgit-Baltistan will be exempted from paying toll tax at all toll plazas across the region.

Speaking in Skardu, the minister said the government has made a principled decision to hand over major highways to the National Highway Authority (NHA) to ensure better repair, maintenance, and improved travel facilities. However, he clarified that a formal Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) has not yet been signed.

He added that improving road infrastructure is a key priority for the caretaker government, as it is essential for regional development and tourism promotion. Around nine major roads, including Skardu–Khaplu Road, Skardu–Shigar Road, and Astore–Chilam Chowk Road, will be upgraded.

The minister also revealed that more than 8,000 applications have been received for 600 new police vacancies, assuring that recruitment will be carried out transparently and strictly on merit.

On elections, he stated that the caretaker government is committed to ensuring free, fair, and transparent elections in accordance with the schedule issued by the Election Commission of Pakistan.

Additionally, accreditation cards will soon be issued to journalists across districts including Skardu. He further noted that amendments to the digital media policy are being finalized after consultations with press clubs and journalist organizations, and a formal code of conduct will be introduced to regulate digital media effectively.