https://arab.news/znuws
- Finance Minister Muhammad Aurangzeb urges the northern region’s administration to target Gulf tourists
- Chief Minister Gulbar Khan details plans to upgrade Gilgit Airport, strengthen public services in the region
KARACHI: Pakistan’s finance chief Muhammad Aurangzeb on Friday urged the northern Gilgit-Baltistan administration to promote package tourism, particularly targeting visitors from Gulf countries, while enforcing environmental safeguards to protect the fragile mountain ecosystem during the monsoon season.
Aurangzeb made the remarks during a meeting with Gilgit-Baltistan Chief Minister Haji Gulbar Khan at the Finance Division in Islamabad.
Gilgit-Baltistan, home to some of the world’s tallest peaks, is one of Pakistan’s top tourism destinations, drawing local and international visitors to its dramatic landscapes and welcoming culture. Despite its appeal, the region remains prone to glacial lake outburst floods and hill torrents that damage infrastructure and homes.
According to official statistics, 41 people died there in the monsoon season that began in late June this year.
“The Minister emphasized responsible investment with strict adherence to building regulations and environmental laws, particularly in the areas of waste and water management to preserve the local ecosystem,” the Finance Division said in a statement after the meeting.
"He encouraged the Gilgit-Baltistan government to explore new revenue-generation avenues and underlined the need to develop airport and road infrastructure as well as tourism spots to promote package tourism, especially for visitors from Gulf countries,” it added.
Aurangzeb reviewed the flood situation and related relief efforts, including the release of federal funds, and commended progress on road infrastructure and tourism investment.
Chief Minister Khan briefed the minister on plans to strengthen public services across the region’s 10 districts by adding staff and improving career opportunities for senior officials.
He highlighted Skardu International Airport’s growing traffic and said work is underway to upgrade Gilgit Airport to international status to further boost tourism.