Gilgit-Baltistan launches EUR 54.24 million climate resilience project

The Government of Gilgit-Baltistan, the Agence Française de Développement (AFD), the European Union, and the Aga Khan Foundation (AKF) have launched the “Gilgit-Baltistan Rural Development and Climate Resilience” project. The initiative is valued at EUR 54.24 million (PKR 17.2 billion) and is funded through AFD financing, an EU grant, AKF funding, and community contributions.

The project aims to improve living conditions and strengthen community resilience against climate change and natural disasters across all districts of Gilgit-Baltistan. Key interventions include the implementation of 216 water supply and sewerage schemes to improve access to safe drinking water and sanitation. The project also targets clean energy production through hydropower initiatives expected to generate 1200-1300kW.

Additional components involve vulnerability assessments across 110 Union Councils, the green retrofitting of 3,000 households, and the energy-efficient construction of 700 households. The program is expected to reach approximately 43,200 households, benefiting roughly 325,600 people, with a target of at least 40% female beneficiaries.