The Khyber Pakhtunkhwa government has announced plans to reopen the Mansehra-Naran-Jalkhad (MNJ) Road before Eid-ul-Fitr to encourage tourism. The road, which connects Khyber Pakhtunkhwa to Gilgit-Baltistan, has been closed since mid-November due to heavy snowfall.
Officials have been instructed to clear glaciers and snow from the route to ensure smooth traffic flow during the holiday season. Provincial authorities believe reopening the road will benefit local businesses, particularly in Kaghan Valley, where tourism plays a crucial role in the economy.
A team from the Kaghan Development Authority (KDA) recently inspected the road and nearby routes to assess the required work. Efforts are also being made to support hoteliers and other tourism-related businesses in the region.
Meanwhile, traders and residents in Shinkiari have urged the government to address encroachments along the Karakoram Highway (KKH). They say congestion on the highway affects those traveling for Eid and Ramadan shopping, causing difficulties for visitors from nearby valleys.
With preparations underway, authorities are hopeful that road clearance efforts will be completed in time to welcome tourists for the festive season.