24-01-2011  12:14:45
Autonomy given to GB for welfare of people: Gilani
ISLAMABAD, Jan 22 (APP): Prime Minister Syed Yusuf Raza Gilani on Saturday said the sole objective of according autonomy to the Gilgit Baltistan region was good governance and welfare of the people.He stressed the need for timely implementation of his public announcements made during his visits to Gilgit-Baltistan regarding rehabilitation and development of the area.The Prime Minister while talking to Chief Minister of Gilgit-Baltistan Syed Mehdi Shah who called on him at Prime Minister House here asked the Chief Minister to appoint competent officers at key positions to ensure public welfare.
He also enquired about the progress of work on drainage of Attaabad lake and rehabilitation of flood affected people as well as the infrastructure.
The Prime Minister directed the Chief Minister to make necessary preparation in consultation with the relevant quarters for payment of compensation to Diamir Basha dam affectees.
He also discussed resettlement schemes for the dam’s affectees with the Chief Minister.
The Chief Minister informed the Prime Minister that the work to dig a 30 meter deep spillway is in progress which will drain the whole lake.
He further said that after successful completion of this project, it is expected that 17 kilometre submerged portion of the Karakurram highway in the lake will be open for traffic again.
He also discussed administrative and financial issues concerning Gilgit-Baltistan with the Prime Minister.