Chief Minister Inaugurates Rs. 10 Billion Tangir-Darel Expressway to Boost Regional Connectivity
Tangir Valley, Gilgit-Baltistan – Chief Minister Haji Gulbar Khan has officially launched the Tangir-Darel Expressway, a landmark infrastructure initiative valued at Rs. 10 billion. Funded through the federal Public Sector Development Programme (PSDP), the 82-kilometer-long expressway is set to transform access to the remote valleys of Tangir and Darel in the Diamer district.
A New Era of Development for Northern Pakistan
Speaking at the inauguration ceremony in Tangir Valley on Tuesday, CM Gulbar Khan described the project as a “historic breakthrough” for the region. “For decades, Tangir and Darel remained disconnected. This expressway marks the start of a new era of progress and opportunity,” he stated.
The expressway aims to provide safe, reliable, and year-round connectivity to areas frequently affected by landslides, floods, and glacial activity. It is expected to be fully completed by November 2027.
Project Overview and Funding
Official documents reveal that the project consists of two main sections—Tangir and Darel Expressways—with Rs. 6.03 billion allocated specifically for these segments. Of the total budget, Rs. 5.09 billion is designated for construction-related expenses.
Although the project’s formal timeline begins in August 2025, work is already in progress, with more than 23% of the construction completed so far.
Critical Infrastructure Amid Challenging Terrain
This initiative comes at a time when many key regional routes—such as the Karakoram Highway and Babusar Pass—have faced closures due to extreme weather conditions and natural disasters. The new expressway is expected to serve as a vital alternate route for both emergency response and local trade.
Additional Development Projects Announced
In addition to the expressway, the Chief Minister also announced several development initiatives for the region:
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Water supply schemes worth Rs. 5 billion
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A new RCC bridge valued at Rs. 350 million
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Healthcare and agricultural support programs
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Proposals for new expressways in other remote areas
These projects are part of a broader plan to uplift the socio-economic landscape of Gilgit-Baltistan and ensure sustainable growth in underdeveloped areas.
Looking Ahead
The Tangir-Darel Expressway is not just a road—it’s a pathway to economic opportunity, social inclusion, and resilience against climate challenges. As construction progresses, the people of Diamer can look forward to better mobility, access to essential services, and enhanced quality of life.
