MUZAFFARABAD – The federal government has approved plans to construct an airport in Azad Jammu and Kashmir (AJK), addressing a long-standing demand of overseas Pakistanis, particularly from the Kashmiri diaspora living in the United Kingdom, Europe, and the Middle East.
According to official sources, the project aims to improve connectivity, promote tourism, and facilitate travel for thousands of overseas Pakistanis who frequently visit their native regions in AJK. The proposed airport is expected to be located in Mirpur or Bhimber district, where a large number of expatriates have roots.
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif lauded the contributions of overseas Pakistanis and said their concerns would not go unheard. “This airport will serve as a gateway to Azad Kashmir, boosting economic activity and easing travel burdens for our overseas brothers and sisters,” he stated during a cabinet meeting.
The initiative is also seen as part of the government’s broader plan to enhance infrastructure in underdeveloped areas. Officials say feasibility studies and land acquisition processes will commence soon.
Overseas communities welcomed the announcement, expressing hope that the airport would be built swiftly and to international standards.
Further details regarding budget allocation, construction timelines, and project scope are expected to be shared in the coming weeks.
