The Pakistan Army has completed the construction of a 66-kilometre road track between Astore and Skardu.
The road connects Shagma in Astore with Manthokha in Skardu. It has improved road access between the two districts.
How will the new road help residents?
The road was built through difficult mountain areas. It has reduced travel time between Astore and Skardu to just a few hours.
The new route has also restored direct access to district headquarters for eight villages in the Phoota Khas Valley of Gultari.
The road will make travel easier for people living in these areas. It will also improve access to markets and other important services.
Could the new road make Skardu travel cheaper?
The new road could help reduce travel costs for people travelling between Astore and Skardu. Better road access and shorter travel times can reduce fuel and transport costs for tourists.
How will the road support the local economy?
The new road is expected to help local trade and agriculture. It will also make it easier to transport livestock between Astore and Skardu. Better road access could help local communities reach markets more easily.
Residents welcomed the completion of the road. They said the new route would make daily travel easier and support economic activity in the area.
The project is part of efforts to improve connectivity in the mountainous region and support the social and economic development of local communities.
US envoy meets GB governor in Skardu
Recently, the US Chargé d’Affaires Natalie A. Baker met Gilgit-Baltistan (GB) Governor Syed Mehdi Shah at the Governor House in Skardu.
The meeting covered several areas of mutual interest. These included development and education in Gilgit-Baltistan. The two sides also discussed Satpara Dam, water resources, electricity and tourism.
What was discussed about Satpara Dam?
Governor Syed Mehdi Shah said Satpara Dam was important for the people of Skardu. The project provides support for electricity generation, irrigation and water supply.
He called for a technical review of the dam. The review would look at its current condition, water availability and performance.
The meeting also covered possible ways to increase the water supply. Shatung Nullah was discussed as one possible source.
The governor also mentioned a recent local effort to divert water from the Phialong tributary towards Satpara Dam. He said the project showed local support and community participation.
