In a major milestone for infrastructure development, the National Highway Authority (NHA) has greenlit the construction of a 235-kilometer, four-lane motorway that will run from Mansehra through Kaghan, Naran, Jhal Kund, and terminate at Chilas. This transformative project is expected to greatly improve regional connectivity and significantly shorten travel durations.
Once completed, the Mansehra-Kaghan-Naran-Chilas Motorway will cut current travel time from seven hours down to just two hours, offering a modern, high-speed, and secure route through the scenic northern belt of Pakistan. Furthermore, the motorway will serve as a crucial part of the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC), boosting both tourism and trade between the two nations.
According to the official statement, the project will adhere to international construction standards. Recognizing its importance, the Federal Minister for Communications has instructed the NHA to declare a state of emergency to immediately begin work on the project.
As of mid-May 2025, the Mansehra-Naran-Jalkhad (MNJ) Road has reopened after a six-month closure due to heavy snowfall, and tourists have begun returning to Kaghan Valley. However, the Babusar Pass, a key link between Naran and Chilas, remains shut because of snow but is expected to reopen soon as clearing efforts continue.
Historically, the Naran-Jalkhand route has been closed during winters—between late October and late May—due to snowfall and frequent landslides. This closure has long disrupted tourism, limited trade, and inconvenienced local communities.
Experts believe that the motorway could permanently resolve seasonal closures by avoiding the 13,700 ft high Babusar Pass and instead using lower elevations and advanced engineering techniques like tunnels, snow galleries, and avalanche protection, similar to those seen on the Karakoram Highway.
Should the new alignment be routed wisely, it could ensure year-round access, support uninterrupted CPEC activity, and provide safer, more reliable travel for both locals and tourists. However, if the new motorway continues along the existing Babusar Pass route, seasonal blockages may still persist.
