GB Freelancers Urges Swift Restoration of Skardu Technology Park

Skardu -- The Gilgit-Baltistan Freelancers Association (GBFA) has called on regional authorities to immediately restore the SCO Software Technology Park in Skardu, which was destroyed by fire during violent protests on March 1.

The incident occurred amid widespread demonstrations across Gilgit-Baltistan protesting the reported assassination of Iran's Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, allegedly in a U.S.-Israeli operation. Protests escalated into violence, with mobs setting fire to several public and private buildings, including a United Nations sub-office, an Army Public School, the Superintendent of Police office, the Aga Khan Rural Support Programme (AKRSP) regional office, and the SCO Software Technology Park.

The technology park, operated by the Special Communications Organization (SCO), served as a vital hub for the region's digital economy. It provided high-speed internet, shared workspaces, and training programs that benefited hundreds of young people in IT and freelancing skills. More than 200 freelancers from across Baltistan relied on the facility, while over 10 IT companies conducted operations there. The park was financially supported in its construction and furnishing by the Aga Khan Development Network (AKDN).

In a statement released today, GBFA President Ghulam Rehman expressed deep concern over the loss, describing it as a major setback for the emerging digital economy in Gilgit-Baltistan. He noted that the facility had enabled young professionals to access global markets and build sustainable livelihoods despite the region's geographic challenges.

Rehman appealed directly to the Chief Secretary of Gilgit-Baltistan, the Force Commander Gilgit-Baltistan, the Director General of SCO, and the Commander of SCO to take urgent steps for restoration. He warned that continued disruption could harm freelancers' international reputations, client relationships, and standings on global platforms.

The GBFA president also conveyed regret over the damage to the AKRSP regional office in the same incident and urged AKDN and AKRSP to renew their support for youth empowerment by contributing to the park's rebuilding.

The protests resulted in multiple casualties, including deaths among demonstrators and at least one security official, prompting authorities to deploy the army under Article 245 and impose curfews in Skardu and Gilgit. The violence has highlighted tensions in the region, but the destruction of the technology park has drawn particular attention for its impact on local economic development.

The association emphasized the importance of prioritizing the facility's restoration to safeguard digital employment opportunities for Baltistan's youth and sustain progress in the region's IT sector.