Federal Government Takes Major Step to Improve Transport in KP and Northern Areas

Islamabad: The federal government has announced plans to construct alternative highways to the Karakoram Highway, connecting Mansehra, Naran, Jalkhand, and Chilas, including a major new project—Highway N-15.

In a National Highway Authority (NHA) meeting chaired by Federal Minister for Communications Abdul Aleem Khan, key decisions were made regarding the development of this strategic route. Abdul Aleem Khan stated that the construction of the new four-lane N-15 highway from Mansehra to the China border will be a revolutionary project.

The minister highlighted that N-15 will serve commercial, tourism, and defense purposes, significantly reducing travel distances compared to the Karakoram Highway. The highway is expected to support speeds of 60 to 80 kilometers per hour.

Federal Minister Abdul Aleem Khan instructed that the road should be constructed as a four-lane dual carriageway wherever possible, keeping in mind the future needs of the country. He added that N-15 will provide a safe route to Central Asia, remain accessible year-round, and boost winter tourism in the region.