Gilgit-Baltistan: The Pakistan Army has completed a 66-kilometre road track connecting Astore with Skardu, significantly improving travel between the two mountainous districts. Radio Pakistan officially reported the project’s completion on October 8, 2026 and said the journey has now been reduced to just a few hours.
ARY News and Dunya News identify the route as running from Shagma in Astore to Manthokha/Mantho in Skardu. The road has been developed through difficult mountainous terrain and provides a new direct connection between the two areas.
The new link has also restored direct access to district headquarters for eight villages in the Phoota Khas Valley of Gultari. Officials expect the improved route to support local trade, agriculture and livestock transportation while making access to markets and essential services easier.
