GILGIT: Prime Minister Imran Khan says the government will work on fast track basis on provincial status of Gilgit-Baltistan to address the sense of deprivation of the people of the region.

Addressing the oath-taking ceremony of new cabinet member of Gilgit-Baltistan in Gilgit today (Wednesday), he said a committee to this effect will be constituted and it will work under timelines.

The Prime Minister expressed confidence that the new government in GB will set new standards of governance that will improve the living standard of the people.

Unveiling his plan for development and welfare of the people of GB, Imran Khan said the present government's Ehsaas Programme, which is the largest poverty alleviation program of Pakistan history, will be introduced in GB as well.

He said all the people of GB will be provided health insurance with the issuance of Sehat Insaaf Cards under which they can get free medical facility at any hospital up to one million rupees. He said the under-construction 250-bed hospital in Gilgit will be completed.

The Prime Minister expressed commitment to turn Gilgit Baltistan into a hub of tourism. He said easy loans will be provided to people to help them construct rooms at their residences for tourists.

He said 300 MW hydro electricity will be generated, which will be more than sufficient for the region. He said two hydro electricity power stations are being constructed; two others are in the pipeline while two more have been approved. Besides, he said, micro hydro power stations will also be set up.

The Prime Minister said Special Economic Zone will also be constructed in GB where industries will relocate.

Elaborating the PTI's vision, Imran Khan said he is focused to uplift the living standard of the downtrodden segment of the society. He said development of the backward areas, including GB, merged districts of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, and Balochistan is a priority of his government.