The Pakistan Army has completed another major construction project in Gilgit-Baltistan, finishing a 66-kilometre road track that links Astore with Skardu. The difficult mountain route runs from Shaqma in Astore to Manthoo in Skardu, and the army built it in a short period of time.
The new Astore Skardu road is expected to make travel between the two districts far easier.
Shorter Journey Between Astore and Skardu
Until now, the trip between Astore and Skardu took a long time. With the new road track in place, the journey has been reduced to just a few hours.
Eight Villages Reconnected to District Headquarters
The Shaqma Manthoo road track has also restored a direct link between eight villages in the Photaks valley of Gultari and the district headquarters. Residents of these villages had been cut off from direct access before the road was built.
Boost for Trade, Agriculture and Livestock
The new road is expected to support local trade, agriculture and the movement of livestock between Astore and Skardu. Easier transport should help farmers and traders get their goods to markets more quickly.
Army Priorities Beyond Defence
The project reflects the army’s commitment to the social and economic well-being of local communities alongside its defence duties. The Astore Skardu road is presented as a clear example of those priorities.