The National Highway Authority (NHA) has now approved a 172-kilometre motorway from Mansehra to Chilas, passing through Kaghan, Naran, and Jhal Khand, as stated in an official announcement made on Tuesday.
This decision was revealed following a meeting led by Federal Minister for Communications Abdul Aleem Khan. The statement indicated that the new motorway, named MNJC, will provide an alternative to the Karakoram Highway (KKH) and is expected to reduce travel distance on the current route by up to 120 kilometres.
As per the official announcement, the project will be carried out in two phases. The first phase involves constructing the motorway from Mansehra through Kaghan and Naran to Babusar Top.
The second phase will extend the motorway from Babusar Top to Chilas.
Longest tunnel in Pakistan to be constructed soon
A major aspect of the project is the 13.5-kilometre Babusar Tunnel, which will be the longest tunnel in Pakistan, according to the statement.
The motorway is designed to be a four-lane road, with the option to expand to six lanes in the future based on demand.
The plan also features the development of modern rest areas every 25 to 30 kilometres for travelers.
Additionally, dedicated trucking terminals for freight transport will be set up on both sides of the motorway.
The Minister mentioned that this route would offer the quickest, shortest, and most cost-effective link from the Arabian Sea to western China, thereby cutting down travel time and transport expenses. He also noted that the network would aid in the long-term growth of Gwadar Port.
Read more: New MNJ Motorway proposed as alternate route to KKH
