Historic Breakthrough: Pakistan Approves 172km Mansehra-Chilas Motorway and Babusar Tunnel
In a landmark move to revolutionize Pakistan's transport, tourism, and trade sectors, the Federal Government has officially approved the construction of a 172-kilometer mega-motorway stretching from Mansehra to Chilas via Kaghan and Naran. This mega-infrastructure project is poised to generate immense economic opportunities, create jobs, and drastically cut travel times.
Federal Minister Aleem Khan Chairs High-Level NHA Briefing
The formal approval was granted during a strategic meeting of the National Highway Authority (NHA), chaired by the Federal Minister for Communications, Aleem Khan. According to the project blueprint, the new motorway will significantly bypass difficult terrains, reducing the travel distance between Mansehra and Chilas by approximately 120 kilometers.
Phased Development & The Iconic 13.5km Babusar Tunnel
To ensure seamless execution, the 172km motorway project will be constructed in two distinct phases:
Phase 1: Connecting Mansehra to the tourist hubs of Kaghan, Naran, and up to Babusar Top.
Phase 2: Extending the high-speed corridor from Babusar Top down to Chilas.
Key Architectural Highlight: The centerpiece of this project is the construction of the 13.5 km long Babusar Tunnel, designated to become the longest tunnel in Pakistan. This engineering marvel will ensure all-weather connectivity, keeping the vital route between Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and Gilgit-Baltistan open even during harsh winter snowfalls.
A Game-Changer for Pak-China Trade and Gwadar Port
Beyond regional transit, this alignment holds immense geopolitical and economic weight. The Mansehra-Chilas Motorway will serve as an vital artery directly linking Western China to Pakistan's southern deep-sea ports in Karachi and Gwadar.
Economic and logistics experts highlight that this corridor will serve as the fastest, shortest, and most cost-effective transit route from the Arabian Sea to Western China, drastically minimizing freight turnaround times and optimizing supply chain efficiencies.
Strengthening Economic Stability and Connectivity
Equipped with international-standard transit facilities, this motorway marks a monumental step forward for Pakistan's national development. By bridging remote scenic landscapes with core economic zones, the project cements Pakistan's vision for robust regional connectivity and long-term fiscal stability.