GILGIT, Jan 17: The information technology department of the Punjab government has agreed to computerise the health department of Gilgit-Baltistan and provide it with networking facilities.

This was stated by Secretary Health Northern Areas Suhail Saqlain while talking tot his correspondent here on Saturday.

He said all district headquarter hospitals, directorate of health and other installations in the region would be computerised.

A memorandum of understanding in this regard would be signed by both the sides soon, he added.The official said the expenditure to be incurred on the project would be borne by the Punjab government.

Medical college: The University of Health Sciences (UHS) will establish an allied health college in Gilgit which would offer modern and latest health related education particularly for paramedics, said the secretary health.

The college would be established through the federal ministry of Kashmir affairs and Northern Areas.

He said the local government would provide infrastructure while other arrangements including manpower and equipment would be provided by the UHS. Funds for the project would be generated through international donors, he added.

Power breakdown: Electricity supply to the Gilgit town remains suspended for the last 40 hours after the water channel of Naltar power station was damaged by boulders falling from the nearby mountains after sporadic rains and snowfall.

Wapda officials said efforts were underway to repair the channel and restore supply of electricity to the town. The town and its surrounding areas mainly bank on the Naltar power station which generates 18 megawatts.