ISLAMABAD – As the election approaches, the federal government on Thursday announced a series of road infrastructure projects in Gilgit-Baltistan in an effort to boost tourism and better connectivity in addition to wooing voters. Communications Minister Abdul Aleem Khan, chairing a meeting at the National Highway Authority (NHA) headquarters, reviewed ongoing and proposed highway schemes.
It was decided to construct several new roads. The projects include the construction of a 54-kilometer road from Astore to Chilam Chowki and a 31-kilometer road from Deosai to Skardu.
Strategic Importance
Gilgit-Baltistan holds strategic importance due to its location bordering China, India, and Afghanistan. The region is also home to some of Pakistan’s most stunning natural landscapes, including the Deosai Plains — the world’s second-highest plateau — and the mountainous terrain around Skardu and Astore.
Improved road connectivity is expected to boost tourism, which is a major source of livelihood for many in the region. The Astore-Chilam Chowki road and the Deosai-Skardu road will provide better access to these tourist destinations.
Election Context
The announcement comes as elections for the Gilgit-Baltistan Assembly are expected in the coming months. General elections for the assembly were scheduled for January 24, 2026, but were postponed indefinitely due to harsh weather conditions. The GB Election Commission has stated that it is preparing to conduct the elections but has not yet decided on a date.
The PPP has demanded that the election schedule be issued immediately. The PML-N has also formed parliamentary boards under Nawaz Sharif’s leadership to screen candidates for the elections.
Development and Voter Appeal
The announcement of road infrastructure projects is part of the federal government’s efforts to demonstrate its commitment to the development of Gilgit-Baltistan. By investing in connectivity and tourism, the government hopes to appeal to voters ahead of the elections.
The projects, if completed, would have long-term benefits for the region’s economy. The Deosai-Skardu road, in particular, would provide access to one of Pakistan’s most beautiful but difficult-to-reach areas.
Analysis: Development as a Campaign Tool
The timing of the road project announcements — as elections approach — suggests that the federal government is using development as a campaign tool. By announcing infrastructure projects, the government is signalling to voters that it is committed to the region’s development.
The projects themselves are significant. The Astore-Chilam Chowki road and the Deosai-Skardu road will improve connectivity in areas that are currently difficult to access. For the tourism industry, which has been hit hard by the Middle East crisis and the resulting economic downturn, these projects could provide a boost.
Whether the announcements will translate into votes remains to be seen. But the government is making clear that it is investing in Gilgit-Baltistan — and wants voters to know it.
