The federal government has approved a major new motorway project under the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC), aimed at improving connectivity to northern tourist destinations and boosting regional development.

According to official details, the proposed motorway will link Mansehra with Kaghan, Naran, Jalkhand and extend all the way to Chilas, creating a modern transport corridor through some of the country’s most scenic mountainous regions.

The 172-kilometre-long motorway will be constructed in two phases. In the first phase, the route will connect Mansehra to Babusar Top. This section will also include the construction of Pakistan’s longest tunnel at Babusar Top, measuring 13.5 kilometres, which is expected to be a major engineering milestone.

In the second phase, the motorway will be extended from Babusar Top to Chilas, completing the full corridor and providing an all-weather route for travellers and trade movement in the region.

Officials said the motorway will be built as a four-lane highway designed to international standards. Modern rest areas will also be established at intervals of 25 to 30 kilometres to provide facilities for commuters, tourists and transporters.

The project is expected to significantly reduce travel time to northern areas while improving safety on the existing winding mountain roads, which are often affected by landslides and harsh weather conditions.

Authorities believe the new motorway will not only enhance tourism but also strengthen economic activity by improving access to remote regions and supporting local communities.

Further planning and timeline details are expected to be announced in the coming months as part of the broader CPEC infrastructure expansion strategy.