Islamabad, President Asif Ali Zardari has ordered the immediate initiation of a medical college and hospital in Gilgit-Baltistan, focusing on enhancing healthcare facilities in the region. In meetings with senior ministers, he also directed compensation for the Diamer Bhasha Dam affectees and expanded healthcare benefits under the Sehat Sahulat Program.

According to Ministry of Information and Broadcasting, during discussions with the Minister for Kashmir Affairs and Gilgit-Baltistan, Amir Muqam, and the Minister for Energy, Musadik Malik, President Zardari emphasized the urgent need for these developments. The plans include a 47 lakh rupee compensation package for each of the 1,500 dam affectees and the integration of Sehat Sahulat Program with the Benazir Income Support Program to provide comprehensive healthcare services in Gilgit-Baltistan. These directives came following a recent meeting with the Governor of Gilgit-Baltistan and members of the GB Council, where assurances were given to address regional issues proactively.