SOST TODAY

04/05/2025

Fully Constructed School in Hussainabad, Sost Awaits Inauguration: Community Demands Immediate Action

Hussainabad, Sost (Upper Gojal) — A newly constructed Government Primary School in Hussainabad, Sost, stands completed but remains unopened, depriving local children of access to much-needed formal education. The delay, despite the building’s readiness, has sparked frustration and anger among the residents, who see it as yet another sign of administrative indifference toward remote communities in Upper Gojal.

According to villagers, the school building — equipped with classrooms, toilets, and water facilities has been ready for months. However, the school has neither been inaugurated nor made functional, leaving dozens of children with no option but to travel long distances to attend school in neighboring areas, or worse, stay at home.

"This school is ready. The classrooms, toilets, and water supply are in place — yet our children are forced to walk long distances or stay at home. Why the delay?" questioned an elder from Hussainabad, voicing the community's growing discontent.

The people of Hussainabad are now appealing directly to the Government of Gilgit-Baltistan and the Education Department to take swift action. They are demanding the immediate inauguration and operationalization of the school, arguing that the ongoing neglect is part of a broader pattern where promises of development in marginalized regions are left unfulfilled.

Local leaders and members of civil society have joined the call, urging elected representatives to intervene. They warn that political leaders and bureaucratic red tape must not stand in the way of children's right to education.

02/05/2025

WHO Country Director Dr. Lou Dapeng Hands Over Power Generator and Ambulance to 25-Bed Hospital in Sost, Strengthening Healthcare

By Sost Today News Desk
SOST, Gojal Hunza, Gilgit-Baltistan — May 1, 2025:
His Excellency Dr. Lou Dapeng, Country Director of the World Health Organization (WHO) Pakistan, has fulfilled commitments made during his 2024 visit to the Rural Health Center (RHC) Sost, Gojal Hunza. During his latest visit on April 29, 2025, Dr. Dapeng officially handed over a 35-kilowatt diesel generator and a modern ambulance to the health facility, addressing key requests raised by the local community and health department.

The equipment is intended to improve service delivery by ensuring uninterrupted power supply and providing emergency transport for patients in the remote border town of Sost. The handover ceremony was attended by local health officials and community representatives, who extended formal gratitude to WHO Pakistan for its support.

The 25-bed facility, completed in 2021, serves as an important healthcare center for the residents of Upper Gojal, including the valleys of Misgar and Chipursan. Located along the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC), Sost also receives travelers, tourists, and traders crossing through the Khunjerav Pass.

During his visit, Dr. Dapeng reaffirmed WHO’s ongoing support to strengthen maternal, neonatal, and child health (MNCH) services and to enhance vaccination programs at RHC Sost. The intervention aims to improve essential health services in the region.

Community representatives and local authorities have welcomed the contribution and emphasized the importance of continued collaboration to further strengthen healthcare delivery in the area.

01/05/2025

Foreign Tourists Cancel Gilgit-Baltistan Trips as Pakistan-India Tensions Escalate
IMTIAZ ALI TAJ
A large number of foreign tourists have cancelled their trips to Gilgit-Baltistan due to heightened tensions between Pakistan and India, depriving local tour operators of much-needed earnings, a trade body official said on Thursday.

The April 22 attack in India-occupied Kashmir’s Pahalgam killed 26 people, mostly tourists, marking one of the deadliest assaults in the region since 2000. New Delhi has implied cross-border links without evidence, while Pakistan’s civilian and military leadership have rejected the accusation and called for a neutral probe.

Tensions have since spiked, with Pakistan reinforcing its forces and Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi granting “operational freedom” to his military. Information Minister Attaullah Tarar said yesterday morning that there was credible evidence of an Indian attack within 36 hours, while Deputy Prime Minister Ishaq Dar said that Pakistan wouldn’t strike first, but would respond decisively and strongly in the face of aggression.

With tensions running high, Pakistan briefly closed the airspace over Gilgit-Baltistan, while India shut its airspace for all Pakistan-registered aircraft, or those owned and operated by Pakistani airlines or operators, including military craft.

Ali Anwar Khan, General Secretary of the Gilgit-Baltistan Tour Operators Association, said, “The threat of war between Pakistan and India has impacted the region’s international tourism this year.”

He added that tourists, including well-heeled visitors from European and Commonwealth countries, have cancelled their trips to the region due to the heightened geopolitical tensions. Khan added that many tourists from Thailand had cancelled their reservations.

Additionally, he noted that around eight to ten foreign groups from his company had cancelled their trips, while 200 tour operators had also reported a number of cancellations.

According to Khan’s estimate, each operator lost at least $50,000 to $80,000 in potential earnings due to the current situation.

He said that most countries have already issued travel advisories due to which foreign tourists are rapidly cancelling their tours, while others have confirmed or are waiting for updates.

He said that one foreign tourist spends an average of $1,500 on a tour. “Now the cancellations will affect the entire industry — from hotels to transport,” he added.

He said the foreign tourists that are presently in Gilgit-Baltistan are worried about a potential escalation between the two nuclear-armed neighbours. “They want to return to their countries immediately,” he said. “They are expressing fears that if they stay in Gilgit-Baltistan for longer to complete their tours, they will be caught in a possible war between the two countries.”

With regard to foreign mountaineers who visit the region to scale eight-thousander peaks, including K2, he said that the sector had already been “severely impacted” due to legal battles.

Previously, tour operators took to court to protest against the hike in taxes and fees for trekking and mountaineering by the Gilgit-Baltistan government.

A dispute between tour operators and the tourism department in Gilgit-Baltistan continues to impact the sector in the mountainous region, as the Supreme Court after suspending the increase in permit fees for foreign visitors had yet to provide clarity on the way forward.

Khan said that the circumstances impacted a total of 2,000 foreign tourists.

According to a statement issued by the GB tourism department on Sunday, about 25,000 foreign tourists visited Gilgit-Baltistan last year.

It said 2,300 foreign mountaineers and trekkers were issued permits by the GB government after paying permit fees, but 22,000 foreign tourists visited Gilgit-Baltistan, and many of them were allowed trekking and climbing without paying fees.

The Information Department also informed the GB Tourism Department that 700 foreign tourists interested in mountaineering and trekking have applied for permits this year.

However, due to the Pakistan Tour Operators Association approaching the court against the permit fees, the issuance of permits — which used to be completed in two to three days — has now been suspended due to court proceedings.

According to Director of Tourism Gilgit-Baltistan Iqbal Hussain, around 1.5 million domestic tourists visited the region last year.

He estimated that the revenue from tourism — domestic and foreign — would be around Rs64 billion.

Via Dawn News

01/05/2025

Ministry of Industries and Production Considers Establishing Skill Development Institutes in Balochistan and Gilgit-Baltistan

ISLAMABAD: The Ministry of Industries and Production, in a bid to enhance local capabilities and creation of job opportunities in the less developed areas, especially in Balochistan and Gilgit-Baltistan, is considering setting up skill development institutes.

Proposals regarding the initiatives were discussed during a high level meeting chaired by the Special Assistant to the Prime Minister (SAPM) on Industries and Production Haroon Akhtar Khan with the Technology Upgradation and Skill Development Company (TUSDEC).

The meeting focused on reviewing progress on a six-point agenda with regard to technological advancements and industrial development. Moreover, there were recommendations for establishing fish processing, packaging, and storage plants in both Balochistan and Gilgit-Baltistan, which will boost the regional economy.

During the meeting, TUSDEC presented its strategy for the Electronic Waste (E-Waste) Metal Recycling project in Gujranwala. The SAPM emphasised that metal recycling would play a crucial role in combating pollution in the country, said a news release.

TUSDEC will provide services for the separation of ferrous and non-ferrous metals, which is expected to improve environmental management. The meeting discussed proposals for testing water quality without the use of bore wells, aimed at ensuring safer water sources for the country.

The meeting also covered discussions on smart manufacturing for agriculture, textile, and automotive parts sectors. The SAPM reaffirmed the necessity of implementing robotics technology and Artificial Intelligence (AI) in line with the present government’s vision, stressing the importance of these innovations for the country’s industrial progress.

Haroon Akhtar emphasised that the establishment of modern slaughterhouses, meat processing, and cold chain facilities is crucial for the national economy. He said that the step will help enhance the capabilities of the local youth, making them useful citizens as well as discouraging the youth’s involvement in anti-social activities.

Additionally, the development of processing and cold chain plants for meat exports was recognised as a significant step in expanding Pakistan’s meat industry. The SAPM highlighted that these initiatives would be beneficial for both the local industries and the public.

The meeting also included suggestions on empowering women in industrial sectors and increasing their participation in key economic activities.

Haroon Akhtar underscored that TUSDEC must deliver concrete results in the next meeting, stating, “I want results in the upcoming meeting.” The meeting concluded with a call for further action and continuous follow-up on the proposed initiatives to achieve tangible outcomes.

Copyright Business Recorder, 2025

01/05/2025

Landslide Destroys Irrigation Channel in Nazimabad Sost, Gojal Hunza

A major landslide last night in Nazimabad, Sost (Gojal, Hunza) has severely damaged the village’s main irrigation channel, destroying over 100 feet of the structure. This has completely cut off the water supply to more than 100 households and thousands of kanals of farmland, threatening crops and local livelihoods during the peak farming season.

Residents have urgently appealed to the government, Gilgit-Baltistan Disaster Management Authority (GBDMA), and welfare organizations for immediate repairs and restoration of the water supply to prevent serious agricultural and economic losses.

29/04/2025

Hunza’s Hospitality Sector Under Tight Security: Dozens of Hotels Barred from Hosting Foreigners

Hunza, Gilgit-Baltistan, April 29, 2025 – The District Administration of Hunza has declared 342 out of 387 hotels and guest houses unsafe for foreign tourists, allowing only 45 “Low-Risk” hotels to host international visitors. The move follows a security audit under National Counter Terrorism Authority (NACTA) guidelines, prompted by heightened national security concerns after the recent Pahalgam attack in Indian-occupied Kashmir.

Under the new rules, “Medium-Risk” and “High-Risk” hotels are barred from accommodating foreigners and can only serve domestic tourists, provided they use the Hotel Eye surveillance software. All hotels must complete security upgrades-including CCTV, armed guards, and Hotel Eye integration-by May 5, or face immediate closure.

The Hunza Hotels Association has strongly rejected the notification, calling it unilateral and damaging to Hunza’s peaceful image, local economy, and hospitality sector. Hoteliers warn that the requirement for armed security and expensive surveillance is impractical for small businesses and risks deterring visitors. The Association has threatened protests if the order is not reconsidered, urging members to stay united and resist the display of arms at hotels.

Deputy Commissioner Hunza Khuzaima Anwar clarified that the measures are part of a nationwide security response and stressed the need to protect tourists and Hunza’s reputation. He promised further consultations with stakeholders to address practical concerns.

The sweeping restrictions have triggered anxiety in Hunza’s tourism industry, which has flourished for decades on community-led initiatives and a reputation for safety and hospitality. Stakeholders fear that without dialogue and support, the new rules could cripple the valley’s economy and undermine its international standing as a peaceful destination.

28/04/2025

All Baltistan Movement (ABM) Condemns Anwaar-ul-Haq Kakar’s Remarks on Gilgit-Baltistan Mineral Policy

Gilgit, SOST TODAY, April 28, 2025. The All Baltistan Movement (ABM) has issued a strong condemnation of former Prime Minister Anwaar-ul-Haq Kakar’s recent statement asserting that the people of Gilgit-Baltistan (GB) do not need to be consulted on the region’s mineral policy and that Pakistan can make decisions unilaterally. ABM has demanded an immediate retraction, calling the remarks irresponsible and a source of deep anger among GB’s youth.

ABM reiterated that Gilgit-Baltistan is not a constitutional part of Pakistan, but a disputed territory linked to the Kashmir conflict and recognized as such under United Nations resolutions. The group accused Kakar of attempting to undermine the rights of the people of GB through his comments.

This condemnation comes amid growing tensions over resource governance in Gilgit-Baltistan. Local stakeholders, including associations representing miners and traders, have rejected the federal government’s recent Mines and Minerals Act 2025 and the unilateral implementation of new mineral rules, arguing these measures undermine regional rights and were enacted without proper consultation with local communities. There is widespread concern that federal policies prioritize outside interests, including foreign companies, over the rights and benefits of the local population.

ABM’s statement reflects broader discontent in Gilgit-Baltistan, where demands for local participation, transparency, and control over mineral wealth remain unresolved.

28/04/2025

28/04/2025

The Residents of Passu Block Karakoram Highway Over Electricity Crisis

Passu, Hunza (April 28, 2025)- SOST TODAY– Residents of Passu blocked the Karakoram Highway (KKH) on Sunday in protest against ongoing electricity shortages in the region. The demonstration, which included local political activists and community members, was organized to demand urgent restoration of power, as prolonged outages have severely affected daily life.

Despite assurances from the Power Department that electricity would be restored within three days, protesters warned that if their demands are not met, they will expand the protest across the region. The blockade caused significant disruption, impacting tourists, traders, and commercial traffic along this vital route connecting Pakistan and China.

Previous protests over similar issues have also led to major delays in trade and tourism, highlighting the persistent frustration among Hunza residents over unreliable electricity supply and the lack of sustainable solutions from authorities.

28/04/2025

Shigar Residents Protest Against Mines and Minerals Bill
SHIGAR, April 28, 2025 - Thousands of residents in Shigar, Gilgit-Baltistan, have staged a major protest against the proposed Mines and Minerals Bill and recent federal government plans to utilize the region's mineral resources for national debt repayment. The demonstration, organized under the "Protection of Mountains, Pastures, Minerals, and Lands" movement, began at Hussaini Chowk and attracted participants from across the district.

Residents from surrounding areas joined the rally, carrying banners and chanting slogans demanding recognition of local ownership over natural resources. The protesters insisted that no policy regarding local resources should be drafted or implemented without public consultation.

The demonstration comes amid broader criticism from political and civil society leaders in Gilgit-Baltistan following recent government statements about using the region's mineral reserves. Local associations, including the Pakistan Gemstone and Minerals Association, have rejected the Mines and Minerals Act 2025, claiming it undermines local rights and prioritizes federal interests.

Protesters have called for the immediate withdrawal of the Minerals Concessional Rules 2024 and a return to the 2019 Mineral Rules, which provided greater local control and required outside investors to operate through joint ventures with residents.

The movement organizers have indicated that protests will continue until the rights of Gilgit-Baltistan residents over their natural resources are secured and protected.

28/04/2025

The first feature film in the Brushaski language releasing in Pakistani cinemas on Eid
Hunza (SOST TODAY) Hundan: An Echo of a Dirge is a first feature film in the Brushaski language, written and directed by Karamat Ali. The film is produced by Karamat Ali and Shahora Karim, with Amjad Ali serving as the associate director and Shahzaib Ali as the director of photography. The project is a collaboration between Rockwood Productions and the Hundan Resource Centre.

Set against the dramatic backdrop of Gilgit-Baltistan, Hundan draws from a traditional Brushaski folk story and is scheduled for release in Pakistani cinemas on Eid. The film aims to bring the unique culture and oral traditions of the Broshaski-speaking community to a wider audience. Director Karamat Ali has emphasized that the film seeks to raise awareness about environmental issues, marking a significant milestone for both regional cinema and environmental advocacy in Pakistan.

Hundan is expected to play a key role in promoting the Brushaski language and heritage, while also highlighting the importance of ecological preservation in the mountainous regions of northern Pakistan.

28/04/2025

Gilgit-Baltistan (GB) in Pakistan has been declared among the top travel destinations for 2025 by CNN, BBC, and the Financial Times.

CNN included Gilgit-Baltistan in its list of 25 must-visit destinations, highlighting its breathtaking landscapes, home to five of the world's highest peaks including K2, and adventure activities like mountaineering and paragliding.

The BBC also listed Gilgit-Baltistan among the 25 best places to travel in 2025, praising its pristine natural beauty, rich cultural heritage, and emphasis on sustainable tourism. The region is noted for its majestic mountains, serene valleys, and unique cultural experiences.

The Financial Times featured Pakistan, particularly the Gilgit-Baltistan region, in its "50 holidays to take in 2025," citing dramatic mountain scenery, improved security, better infrastructure, and easier access via new flights and e-visa facilities as key factors.

Together, these global media outlets spotlight Gilgit-Baltistan as a premier destination for adventure, nature, culture, and responsible tourism in 2025.