PM Approves New Power Projects for Gwadar and Gilgit-Baltistan

Islamabad: Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has approved new power projects for Gwadar and Gilgit-Baltistan during a high-level meeting on ongoing reforms and development initiatives in the power sector.

The Prime Minister directed that a comprehensive strategy be implemented immediately to ensure uninterrupted, reliable and affordable electricity supply to Gwadar Port City. He emphasized that all relevant institutions must work in complete coordination to ensure timely completion of these projects, as a strong energy infrastructure in Gwadar is vital for boosting national economic activities and attracting investment.

PM Shehbaz Sharif also approved immediate implementation of the 100MW solar project for Gilgit-Baltistan. He stated that the project will provide the region with environmentally friendly, stable and uninterrupted electricity.

He added that the federal government is taking every possible step for the welfare of the people of Gilgit-Baltistan, industrial development, and the promotion of investment in the region.

Discussing power sector reforms, the Prime Minister appreciated the recommendations of the committee headed by Ahsan Iqbal and instructed effective implementation of short-, medium-, and long-term plans.

During the briefing, the Ministry of Energy informed the meeting that power outages in Gwadar have already been reduced by 42%. A comprehensive plan to stabilize voltage over the next six months has been prepared. Solar projects of 9.7MW in Gwadar will be completed within 8 to 12 months, while a 40MW power plant will be installed under long-term plans. Due to industrial growth, electricity demand in Gwadar is expected to rise by 30% in the coming years.

The 100MW solar project for Gilgit-Baltistan will consist of 18MW rooftop installations and 82MW utility-scale systems. The project is expected to save the government approximately Rs 1 billion annually. The GB government will provide land, infrastructure, and other necessary facilities on time.

The Prime Minister expressed confidence that these vital power projects will not only improve the energy sector but also help transform Gwadar Port into one of the world’s leading ports and a future hub of regional economic activity.