Babusar Tunnel to boost northern motorway connectivity

Mansehra: The proposed motorway connecting Mansehra, Kaghan, Naran, Jhal Khand, and Chilas is being viewed as a transformative infrastructure project for northern Pakistan. The route is expected to improve connectivity between western China and the Arabian Sea by providing a safer and more reliable transportation corridor through mountainous terrain. A major component of the plan is the 13.5-kilometre Babusar Tunnel, which would bypass the seasonal challenges of Babusar Pass and enable year-round travel. The project is expected to support tourism, logistics, freight movement, and regional trade while enhancing accessibility to northern destinations. Improved transport infrastructure often stimulates investment, commercial activity, and land development along key corridors. Can this strategic route unlock a new era of economic growth in northern Pakistan?