‘Water for Development’ project launched in Gilgit-Baltistan

GILGIT: In order to combat climate change and foster sustainable development, a “Water for Development” project has been launched in Gilgit-Baltistan.

Spearheaded by EvK2CNR, with funding from the Italian Agency for Development Cooperation (AICS) and implementation by the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), the project aims to enhance climate resilience and resource management in the region.

The project will establish hydrological stations to monitor glacial water discharge, offering critical data for flood management and water resource optimization. Two new laboratories for phytopathology and zoology will be set up, while existing facilities for glaciology and water quality will be upgraded. These scientific efforts aim to address challenges linked to water resources, livestock diseases, and plant health.

A key component of the initiative is a robust community-focused program emphasizing awareness, knowledge sharing, and capacity building. Training sessions will cover vital areas, including drinking and irrigation water management, livestock rearing, and advanced agricultural techniques.

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The project will also promote ecotourism through the creation of the region’s first model ecovillage. This ecovillage will integrate local communities into the tourism sector, enhancing livelihoods and showcasing sustainable practices. Furthermore, government officials in Gilgit-Baltistan will receive training on green policy-making and sustainable development strategies.

The project’s launch event in Gilgit was attended by prominent figures, including the Minister of Planning and Development for Gilgit-Baltistan, Raja Nasir Ali Khan; of Karakoram International University Vice Chancellor Dr Ata Ullah Shah and Secretary of Law Gilgit-Baltistan, Sajjad Haider, alongside representatives from UNDP, EvK2CNR, and local universities.

Speaking at the event, Raja Nasir Ali Khan underscored the urgent need to address environmental challenges in Gilgit-Baltistan, highlighting the importance of eco-friendly tourism to mitigate environmental degradation. Dr. Ata Ullah Shah called for enhanced research into water resources, emphasizing its link to abdominal cancer. Sajjad Haider advocated for better coordination among institutions, particularly in data sharing, while Khadim Hussain, Director of the Environmental Protection Agency, hailed the project as a timely step towards sustainable development.

Technical experts, including Faheem Ahmed from UNDP and Aurangzeb from EvK2CNR, outlined the project’s core deliverables, focusing on its multi-faceted approach to addressing the region’s vulnerabilities.

Gilgit-Baltistan, a lifeline of water resources for Pakistan, is also a hub for tourism due to its breathtaking landscapes and towering mountains. However, challenges such as limited access to drinking water, inadequate livestock facilities, and limited livelihood opportunities continue to affect local communities. The “Water for Development” project aims to tackle these issues, fostering a resilient and sustainable future for the region.