Pakistan Approves 100MW Solar Power Project in Gilgit-Baltistan

Strategic Insights -

The National Economic Council of Pakistan has approved a 100 megawatt solar photovoltaic power project for Gilgit-Baltistan, aiming to alleviate the region's energy crisis. The project, announced by Prime Minister Imran Khan during his visit to GB, will provide electricity to several districts, including Skardu, Hunza, Gilgit, and Diamer. The project's completion is expected within three years at a total cost of Rs24,957 million, with the first phase set to supply 18.96MW of electricity to Skardu district.

Key Takeaways:

  • The National Economic Council has approved a 100MW solar power project for Gilgit-Baltistan, which will benefit several districts.
  • The project will be completed within three years at a total cost of Rs24,957 million.
  • The first phase of the project will supply 18.96MW of electricity to Skardu district.
  • The second phase will provide 6MW, 28MW, and 13MW of electricity to Hunza, Gilgit, and Diamer districts, respectively.
  • The remaining districts will receive 16.1MW of electricity in the third phase.
  • Mass loadshedding and power outages have led to protests and blockades in several areas of Gilgit-Baltistan.
  • The issue was raised in the GB Assembly by opposition lawmakers, who have described the energy crisis as "unbearable" for the local population.

Statistics:

  • Total project cost: Rs24,957 million
  • Project completion time: Three years
  • Electricity supply in the first phase: 18.96MW (Skardu district)
  • Electricity supply in the second phase: 6MW (Hunza), 28MW (Gilgit), and 13MW (Diamer)
  • Electricity supply in the third phase: 16.1MW (for the remaining districts)

Sources:

  • Radio Pakistan
  • GB Assembly proceedings
  • Statement by Prime Minister Imran Khan during his visit to Gilgit-Baltistan