Gilgit-Baltistan gets Space Applications and Research Centre

GILGIT: Gilgit-Baltistan Chief Minister Haji Gulbar Khan on Wednesday inaugurated the region’s first Space Applications and Research Centre (SPARC-GB) on Wednesday.

The newly established centre aims to play a crucial role in addressing climate change, glacier melting, disaster management, and the sustainable development of the region.

The event was attended by prominent figures, including Space and Upper Atmosphere Research Commission (SUPARCO) Chairman Muhammad Yousuf Khan, who lauded the efforts of the chief minister in making the space and research Centre a reality. He extended his congratulations to the people of Gilgit-Baltistan, emphasizing the significance of this step in leveraging space technology for the region’s advancement.

In his address, the SUPARCO chairman highlighted the critical importance of space research in tackling environmental challenges and fostering innovation.

Also read: PakSat MM1: Pakistan’s satellite successfully reaches earth orbit

“SUPARCO’s role in Gilgit-Baltistan will be pivotal for sustainable development, especially in managing critical issues such as climate change, glacier melting, and disaster response,” he stated.

The centre, he added, would also underscore the importance of space research, environmental protection, and technological advancement for Pakistan’s future.

He said the glaciers in Gilgit-Baltistan, which serve as a vital national asset, are a focal point for SPARC-GB. The SUPARCO chairman stressed the need to monitor these glaciers through satellite technology to preserve this precious resource.

He also discussed SUPARCO’s potential role in promoting tourism and contributing to smart agriculture initiatives in collaboration with the provincial government.

Beyond environmental efforts, the research center aims to foster space technology awareness among students. The SUPARCO plans to host sessions in schools and colleges across the region, introducing young minds to space technology and encouraging scientific interest.

Chief Minister Haji Gulbar Khan expressed his optimism regarding the benefits of the center. “The establishment of SPARC-GB is a positive step towards utilizing modern technology for the development of Gilgit-Baltistan,” he remarked.

He also highlighted that the provincial government remains committed to transparency, which has been evident in projects such as the Diamer-Bhasha Dam, where SUPARCO played a vital role in ensuring transparent land acquisition through satellite monitoring.

The Chief Minister emphasized the importance of adopting modern solutions to address the unique geographical and climatic challenges of the region.

“With most of Gilgit-Baltistan’s population living in valleys surrounded by mountains, the threat of natural disasters looms large, especially with the ongoing climate changes. It is imperative that we move away from traditional methods and employ cutting-edge technology to drive our development efforts forward,” he said.

SPARC-GB’s focus on satellite monitoring will also extend to various other sectors, including agriculture, forestry, and land profiling under the Geographic Information System (GIS).

The chief minister expressed confidence that SUPARCO’s collaboration with the regional government would ensure the transparent implementation of public projects and the protection of the environment.

Gulbar Khan reaffirmed the provincial government’s commitment to supporting the centre and resolving any challenges it may face. “The government of Gilgit-Baltistan will provide full cooperation to make SPARC-GB a fully functional and impactful centre.

The positive results of SUPARCO’s past contributions have shown us the way forward, and we are eager to continue this partnership for the betterment of the region,” he concluded.