The federal government has approved the construction of the N-15 highway, a major new route connecting Mansehra to the Chinese border, offering a faster and safer alternative to the existing Karakoram Highway. The approval came during an NHA meeting chaired by Federal Minister for Communications Abdul Aleem Khan. The highway will pass through Mansehra, Naran, Jhalakhand, and Chilas, reducing travel time and improving all-season accessibility. Officials stated the project will feature resorts, hotels, lakes, and shopping areas developed through public-private partnerships, and will primarily follow a 4-lane bilateral design. The new route is expected to boost trade with Central Asia, strengthen defense logistics, and enhance tourism in northern Pakistan. The minister said the project will be completed within two years and built to world-class standards.
