Northern travel in Pakistan is set for a major upgrade as the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP) government has approved a Rs.580 million project for the Datta–Kotkay Bypass. This strategic new road will connect the Karakoram Highway (KKH) with the Mansehra–Naran–Jalkhad (MNJ) route, allowing travelers to bypass Mansehra city entirely.
Once completed, the bypass is expected to streamline traffic, reduce travel time, and enhance connectivity for tourists heading toward Kaghan Valley and Azad Jammu & Kashmir (AJK)—two of Pakistan’s most sought-after travel destinations.
A New Route for Easier Northern Access
The Datta–Kotkay Bypass will serve as a vital link between the country’s major northern corridors. Currently, Mansehra city faces heavy congestion due to through traffic from the KKH and MNJ routes. By diverting this flow, the bypass will make journeys smoother and more efficient for tourists, transporters, and local residents alike.
According to PTI KP leader Kamal Saleem Swati, the project will not only improve travel conditions but also support local communities by creating better mobility and trade opportunities. The project has been backed by KP Assembly Speaker Babar Saleem Swati, who emphasized its importance for regional development and tourism.
Local Development and Future Prospects
In addition to the bypass, Rs.100 million from the KP Assembly Speaker’s development fund has been allocated for roadwork and pavements in Safada Village Council, near the project area. This investment further highlights the government’s commitment to uplifting local infrastructure.
While the project has been approved, several details are still awaited, including the construction timeline, design specifications, and environmental management plan. However, officials are optimistic that once implemented, the Datta–Kotkay Bypass will become a key northern access route, offering a scenic and time-saving alternative for travelers.
Boosting Tourism and Trade in Northern Pakistan
If executed efficiently, the Datta–Kotkay Bypass will significantly reduce congestion in Mansehra, facilitate tourism growth, and improve logistics for goods transport. The project reflects KP’s broader focus on sustainable infrastructure development, aiming to make northern travel safer, faster, and more enjoyable for locals and visitors alike.
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