The Khyber Pakhtunkhwa government has announced plans to reopen the Mansehra-Naran-Jalkhad (MNJ) Road before Eid-ul-Fitr to boost tourism in the region. The road, which links Khyber Pakhtunkhwa to Gilgit-Baltistan, has been closed since mid-November due to heavy snowfall.
Officials have been directed to expedite the removal of snow and glaciers to ensure smooth traffic flow during the holiday season. The reopening is expected to significantly benefit local businesses, particularly in Kaghan Valley, where tourism is a key driver of the economy.
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A team from the Kaghan Development Authority (KDA) recently assessed the road conditions and identified necessary restoration work. Additionally, authorities are working to support hoteliers and other tourism-related businesses in the region ahead of the influx of visitors.
Meanwhile, traders and residents in Shinkiari have urged the government to address encroachments along the Karakoram Highway (KKH), citing congestion issues that impact travelers, especially during Eid and Ramadan shopping.
With road clearance efforts in full swing, authorities are optimistic that the MNJ Road will be ready in time to welcome tourists for the festive season.
