Islamabad: The federal government has decided to build a new motorway under the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC), linking Mansehra with Kaghan, Naran, Jalkhand, and Chilas. According to the plan, the 172-kilometre motorway will be completed in two phases. In the first phase, the route will extend from Mansehra to Babusar Top, where Pakistan’s largest tunnel, measuring 13.5 kilometres, is proposed. The second phase will connect Babusar Top to Chilas. Officials also plan to develop modern rest areas after every 25 to 30 kilometres along the four-lane motorway. The project is expected to improve northern connectivity, tourism access, trade movement, and long-term regional development. Could this become a transformative corridor for northern Pakistan?
