The federal government has approved a 172-kilometre motorway project designed to significantly improve tourism access, travel safety, and regional connectivity across northern Pakistan.

The project, officially known as the MNJC Motorway, will connect Mansehra, Kaghan Valley, Naran, Jalkhand, Babusar Top, and Chilas, creating a modern travel corridor through some of the country’s most popular tourist destinations.

According to officials, the motorway will serve as an alternative route to the Karakoram Highway and is expected to reduce travel distance by up to 120 kilometres, offering safer and faster access for both tourists and commercial traffic.

The project will be completed in two phases and includes a 13.5-kilometre Babusar Tunnel, which is set to become the longest tunnel in Pakistan. The four-lane motorway is expected to enhance road safety in challenging mountainous terrain, particularly during peak tourist seasons.

Authorities believe the MNJC Motorway will play a transformative role in boosting tourism, improving trade routes, and supporting economic development across northern regions. Improved connectivity is also expected to encourage domestic and international tourism by making scenic destinations more accessible throughout the year.

Officials further stated that the project aligns with broader infrastructure development goals aimed at strengthening regional integration and promoting sustainable economic growth through improved transport networks.