Pakistan has approved a major motorway project connecting Mansehra, Kaghan and Chilas in a move aimed at improving transport links, boosting tourism and supporting economic growth in the country’s northern regions.
The officials said the motorway would serve as an important transport corridor linking western China directly with the ports of Karachi and Gwadar.
The route is expected to facilitate trade, reduce transportation costs and shorten delivery times for goods moving between the Arabian Sea and western China.
The decision was taken during a meeting of the National Highway Authority chaired by Federal Minister for Communications Aleem Khan, where officials presented a detailed briefing on the proposed motorway scheme.
During the meeting, the minister approved the construction of a new 172-kilometre motorway that will pass through Mansehra, Kaghan, Naran, Jalkhad and Chilas.
Officials said the project would significantly improve travel across the region and reduce the distance between Mansehra, Kaghan and Chilas by approximately 120 kilometres.
According to the plan, the project will be completed in two phases. The first phase will cover the route from Mansehra to Kaghan, Naran and Babusar Top, while the second phase will extend the motorway from Babusar Top to Chilas.
A key feature of the project is the construction of a 13.5-kilometre Babusar tunnel, which is expected to become the longest tunnel in Pakistan.
The tunnel is intended to provide year-round connectivity and improve access through the mountainous terrain.
Experts believe the motorway could become one of the fastest and most cost-effective routes for regional commerce.
They say the modern transport infrastructure will not only improve connectivity but also encourage tourism, create employment opportunities and contribute to long-term economic stability.
The project is being viewed as a significant step towards strengthening national development, enhancing regional integration and improving Pakistan’s transport network.
