NHA Approves Rs22 Billion for Two Major Road Projects

The National Highway Authority (NHA) has approved over Rs22 billion for two major road projects aimed at boosting connectivity and economic development in the Gilgit and Chitral regions. The 153-kilometer Chitral–Booni–Mastuj–Shandur (CBMS) Road, costing Rs17.78 billion, will be constructed as a two-lane route with a 100-meter right of way and divided into four sections. Work on the project has already begun. Once completed, it will link the N-45 and N-35 highways, offering an alternative winter route and improving accessibility for traders and residents in Upper Chitral. The second project, the 46-kilometer Chitral–Ayun–Bumburate (CAB) Road, costing Rs4.65 billion, has also entered the construction phase. The upgraded roads will reduce travel time, ease congestion, support local trade, enhance tourism, and improve access to essential services for more than 350,000 residents.