Government Fast-Tracks Energy Boost for Gilgit-Baltistan and Gwadar

The government has approved an accelerated plan to resolve chronic power shortages in Gilgit-Baltistan and Gwadar, prioritising solar and grid-stability projects. Planning Minister Ahsan Iqbal has directed all departments to meet strict timelines to ensure reliable, affordable electricity for both regions.

Read more: Gilgit-Baltistan Gets 100MW Solar Boost

Planning Minister Prof. Ahsan Iqbal Chaudhary chaired a high-level meeting in Islamabad to review progress on critical energy initiatives for Gilgit-Baltistan (GB) and Gwadar. He emphasised activity and service delivery, noting that the Prime Minister has designated GB’s energy needs as a top priority.

Under Uraan Pakistan, the government is fast-tracking a Rs 24 billion 100 MWp solar project in Gilgit-Baltistan, to be completed by June 2026. The project consists of 18 MW of rooftop solar installations and 82 MW of utility-scale solar arrays, aiming to supply households, businesses, and public infrastructure across GB.

With formal approval already granted by the Executive Committee of the National Economic Council (ECNEC), work is scheduled to begin to immediately under a high-priority federal initiative and is expected to significantly reduce load-shedding, boost energy access in remote districts, and support economic activity. The government emphasises the scheme’s role in delivering reliable, eco-friendly electricity to GB’s residents.

In Gwadar, the committee reviewed the Rs. 1.9 billion solarisation of pumping stations and desalination plants, a project with 2.7-year payback period. Grid-stability upgrades, including deployment of a ±50 MVAR STATCOM at Pasni and a local 132 kV generation plant are expected by late 2026.

The Minister stressed that reliable power, improved maintenance at the port, and strong coordination with provincial authorities are essential for sustainable development in both regions.