SKARDU: The Pakistan Army has completed construction of a 66-kilometre road connecting Shagma in Astore with Manthokha in Skardu, improving connectivity between the two districts.
The route, built through difficult mountainous terrain, has reduced travel time between Astore and Skardu to a few hours, according to Radio Pakistan.
The road also restores direct access to district headquarters for eight villages in Gultari’s Phoota Khas Valley, making travel and access to essential services easier.
The new route is expected to support trade, agriculture and livestock transportation while improving access to markets and strengthening economic activity in the region.