The project will install hydrological stations to measure water discharge from glaciers, providing valuable data on flood levels and supporting better water resource management in the region. The project’s scope includes the establishment of two new laboratories in Gilgit-Baltistan for phytopathology and zoology, alongside strengthening existing glaciology and water quality laboratories previously set up by EvK2CNR and UNDP with Italian Government support.
A key aspect of the initiative is a comprehensive program focused on community awareness, knowledge sharing, and capacity building. This program will cover topics such as drinking and irrigation water, livestock rearing, and enhanced agricultural practices. The project will also conduct scientific studies on glaciology, water resources, and the diseases affecting livestock and plants.
In addition, the project will promote ecotourism in Gilgit-Baltistan through the establishment of a model ecovillage—the first of its kind in the region. This integrated model will connect local communities with the tourism industry, leveraging local knowledge and skills to contribute to economic development. The project also includes capacity building for government officials in Gilgit-Baltistan, focusing on sustainable development and the adoption of green practices in policy formulation and implementation.
The launch event was attended by Raja Nasir Ali Khan, Minister of Planning and Development for Gilgit-Baltistan, Engineer Dr. Ata Ullah Shah, Vice Chancellor of Karakoram International University (KIU), Mr. Sajjad Haider, Secretary of Law Gilgit-Baltistan, and officials from government institutions, UNDP, EvK2CNR, and local universities.
In his address, Raja Nasir Ali Khan emphasized the environmental challenges faced by Gilgit-Baltistan and the urgent need for interventions to address them. He stressed the importance of eco-friendly tourism practices to prevent further environmental degradation in the region. Engineer Dr. Ata Ullah Shah highlighted the need for increased research on water resources in the region, particularly studies on the role of drinking water in abdominal cancer. Mr. Sajjad Haider, Secretary Laws GB said that there was need to increase coordination among the institutions particularly for the data sharing. Mr. Khadim Director Environmental Protection Agency highly appreciated the project and he regarded it the need of the time for sustainable development in GB.
Mr. Faheem Ahmed, Technical Specialist at UNDP, and Mr. Aurangzeb, NRM Specialist at EvK2CNR, provided an overview of the project’s key deliverables. Mr. Arif Hussain, Regional Manager for Gilgit-Baltistan, concluded the ceremony by thanking all participants.
