The Pakistan Space and Upper Atmosphere Research Commission (SUPARCO) officially opened the Space Applications and Research Centre (SPARC-GB) in Gilgit Baltistan (GB), marking a historic moment for Pakistan.
The first space research facility in the country has been established in the region, and GB Chief Minister Gulbar Khan was present for the occasion. With an emphasis on water resource management, glacier melt, and climate change, SPARC-GB seeks to address urgent environmental and socioeconomic problems.
Muhammad Yousuf Khan, Chairman of SUPARCO, underlined the center’s commitment to assisting the neighbourhood by fostering job growth and capacity building. In order to address the region’s susceptibility to natural disasters, the centre will improve satellite monitoring capabilities.
The establishment of the Space Applications and Research Center (SPARC-GB) in Gilgit-Baltistan can bring numerous benefits to local communities:
- Employment Opportunities:
The facility will provide jobs for scientists, engineers, and support workers, enhancing local employment and economic growth.
Read more: PAKSAT MM1: Pakistan launches multi-mission communication satellite from China
- Education and Training:
By providing educational programs and training seminars, SPARC-GB will help local professionals and students become more knowledgeable and skilled.
- Environmental Monitoring:
The centre will be essential in tracking environmental changes, like glacier melt and water availability, which will assist communities in anticipating and lessening the effects of climate change.
- Disaster Management:
Enhancing disaster planning and response through fast and precise data on natural disasters such as landslides and floods will help the centre potentially save lives and property.
- Agricultural Support:
By maximising agricultural techniques, satellite data can help local farmers increase crop yields and ensure food security.
- Community Development:
Initiatives from the centre may result in enhanced access to technology and better infrastructure, as well as general community development.
The quality of life for residents in Gilgit-Baltistan can be considerably improved by these advantages.
This is a major step forward for Pakistan’s space research and environmental monitoring efforts.