Federal Minister for Communications Aleem Khan has approved the construction of a 172-kilometre motorway project connecting Mansehra, Kaghan, Naran, Jhal Khand, and Chilas. The new route is designed to provide a safer and shorter alternative to the Karakoram Highway, significantly improving travel efficiency in northern Pakistan. The decision was made during a meeting of the National Highway Authority (NHA), where key infrastructure plans were reviewed.
According to officials, the motorway will be developed in two phases, with the first phase covering Mansehra to Babusar Top via Kaghan and Naran, and the second phase extending from Babusar Top to Chilas. The project is expected to reduce travel distance on the Karakoram Highway by up to 120 kilometres, making long-distance travel faster and more convenient for commuters and transporters.
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A major highlight of the project is the proposed 13.5-kilometre Babusar Tunnel, which will become Pakistan’s longest tunnel upon completion. The motorway will initially be constructed as a four-lane highway, with future expansion plans to upgrade it to six lanes as traffic demand increases over time.
Aleem Khan described the project as a game-changer for regional connectivity and economic development, stating that it will improve access between Pakistan’s southern ports and western China through the Karachi and Gwadar trade routes. He directed the National Highway Authority to ensure timely completion of all technical and planning work to accelerate implementation of the project.
