By The federal government has officially approved the construction of the N-15 highway, a transformative infrastructure project designed to connect Mansehra to the Chinese border through a modern, faster, and safer route. The approval was granted during a high-level meeting of the National Highway Authority (NHA), chaired by Federal Minister for Communications Abdul Aleem Khan.
This new mega-project aims to revolutionize travel, trade, and tourism in northern Pakistan by offering a strategic alternative to the existing Karakoram Highway (KKH)—long regarded as one of the most challenging yet essential routes in the region.
A Modern Route Through Key Northern Corridors
The proposed N-15 highway will pass through Mansehra, Naran, Jhalakhand, and Chilas, connecting some of Pakistan’s most scenic and economically significant areas. The alignment is expected to significantly reduce travel distances and ensure year-round accessibility, even during harsh winters when certain routes remain closed.
Federal Minister Abdul Aleem Khan highlighted the project’s strategic importance, stating:
“This highway will be unique in terms of trade, tourism, and defense.”
The minister confirmed that the highway will feature a speed limit of 60 to 80 km/h, making it suitable for both commercial transport and winter tourism, a rapidly growing sector in the north.
4-Lane Design and Public-Private Development Model
Officials revealed that the N-15 highway will primarily follow a 4-lane bilateral design with expansion potential to accommodate future traffic volumes. To promote tourism and economic activity, the project includes plans for:
- Resorts
- Hotels
- Lakeside areas
- Shopping zones
These facilities will be developed under a public-private partnership (PPP) model, encouraging investment while ensuring world-class standards.
Boosting Trade, Tourism & Defense Capabilities
Once completed, the N-15 highway is expected to:
- Strengthen Pakistan’s trade links with China and Central Asia
- Enhance defense logistics across northern borders
- Promote tourism by providing safer and faster travel options
- Support local economies by generating income opportunities in remote regions
The project aligns with national development goals aimed at modernizing transport networks and improving regional connectivity.
Completion Target Set for Two Years
Minister Abdul Aleem Khan emphasized that the project is designed to meet Pakistan’s future transportation needs, with an ambitious two-year completion target. During the meeting, the NHA Chairman, Secretary for Communications, and other senior officials briefed the minister on feasibility studies and engineering standards.
All construction phases will adhere to global safety and quality benchmarks, ensuring a durable and climate-resilient infrastructure.
The approval of the N-15 highway marks a major milestone in Pakistan’s infrastructure development. By providing a modern alternative to the Karakoram Highway, the route is set to strengthen trade corridors, uplift tourism, and support long-term economic growth. With construction expected to begin soon, northern Pakistan is poised for a new era of connectivity and opportunity.
Disclaimer
The information provided in this article is based on official statements and available details at the time of writing. Project timelines, features, and government decisions may change. Readers are advised to verify updates through relevant authorities before making any conclusions.
