GILGIT: Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has directed the Ministry of Civil Aviation to increase Pakistan International Airlines (PIA) flights to Gilgit-Baltistan, besides arranging operation of private airlines to the region.

According to a press release issued on Wednesday by GB Chief Secretary Mohyuddin Ahmed Wani said: “I am glad to state that I was able to convey to the Prime Minister of Pakistan the dire need to promote tourism in the region.”

Mohyuddin Ahmed Wani said in this regard, I requested how important it was to increase the number of PIA flights to GB on daily basis.

“I am pleased to announce that on my request, the Prime Minister has directed the Ministry of Aviation to look into the matter,” he said.

A meeting has been scheduled with the staff of the Ministry of Civil Aviation, private air travel sector and other stakeholders in Islamabad on Friday. GB Chief Secretary has also been invited.

The agenda of the meeting is to explore ways to promote tourism to GB through more travel opportunities by air. Chief secretary said this will bear fruit and result in enhancement of tourism and in effect improvement of economy of the region, he said.

Earlier, GB Chief Secretary Mohyuddin Ahmed Wani through a letter, sent to Chief Executive Officer of PIA requested to increase number of flights to Gilgit and Skardu.

The letter said there is a massive influx of tourists during this time, and the current flight schedule to both cities in Gilgit-Baltistan is very limited.

“Therefore, we urge you to increase the number of PIA flights to Gilgit and Skardu during the summer season.”

It noted that as you may know, there are very few revenue generation activities in Gilgit-Baltistan, and tourism is the backbone of the local economy.

“An increase in the number of flights to Gilgit would not only benefit foreign and domestic tourists but also facilitate the local population.

“In addition to this, we would like to highlight the potential economic benefits that an increase in flights could bring to the region. The rise in tourism would create more jobs, boost the local economy, and generate more revenue for the government.

“We hope that you will consider the matter and take necessary steps to increase the number of PIA flights to Gilgit and Skardu, the letter said. On April 18, Gilgit-Baltistan Assembly through a unanimous resolution has demanded decrease in PIA fares on the Gilgit-Baltistan and Islamabad route to promote tourism.

Published in Dawn, April 27th, 2023