Top government officials on Thursday reviewed the proposed Mansehra, Naran, Kaghan, Babusar Top and Jalkhand (MNJ) Motorway project, aimed at providing an alternative route to the Karakoram Highway (KKH).
The project is expected to shorten travel distance by around 100 kilometres, improving connectivity and easing travel. Officials stated that the motorway could significantly boost tourism and prove to be a game-changer for the region.
Governor of Gilgit-Baltistan Syed Mehdi Shah and Federal Minister Abdul Aleem Khan held a meeting to discuss ongoing and proposed development projects. During their conversation, both leaders expressed satisfaction with Pakistan’s recent diplomatic progress and congratulated one another. Abdul Aleem Khan noted that, by the grace of Almighty Allah, the country’s dignity and international standing have improved significantly.
A key point of discussion was the proposed Motorway Project connecting Mansehra, Naran, Kaghan, Babusar Top, and Jalkhand (MNJ). The Federal Minister explained that this motorway would act as an alternative to the Karakoram Highway (KKH) and shorten travel distance by approximately 100 kilometres. He emphasised that the project would ease transportation, boost tourism, and prove to be a transformative initiative for the region.
Mehdi Shah raises concerns related to communications sector in GB
Syed Mehdi Shah also raised several concerns related to the communications sector in Gilgit-Baltistan. In response, Abdul Aleem Khan assured full cooperation, including the introduction of Emergency Service 1122 along highways in the area. He further stated that the government is prioritising road development in tourist destinations to attract more visitors, generate employment, and create business opportunities for local communities.
The Minister reaffirmed the government’s commitment to balanced national development, highlighting the importance of building high-quality road infrastructure across all regions, particularly in the northern areas. Syed Mehdi Shah expressed satisfaction with the performance of the National Highway Authority and appreciated the Federal Minister’s continued support for Gilgit-Baltistan’s development.
