Khairuddin Shadani
GARAM CHASHMA, June 23, 2025:
A major step forward in regional connectivity has begun as a technical survey team from NESPAK (National Engineering Services Pakistan) has arrived to begin a detailed feasibility study for the proposed Chitral-Shah Salim border road.
The survey aimed at identifying a safer, shorter and cost-effective alignment for the strategic route connecting Chitral to the Pak-Afghan border at Shah Salim.
According to the team lead, Engineer Tauqeer, the ongoing survey will focus on addressing shortcomings in previous studies and providing practical engineering solutions. The team is mapping out alternative routes that avoid glaciers, flood zones and landslide-prone areas.
Modern infrastructure solutions such as galleries, causeways, retaining walls and bridges are being proposed, especially for environmentally sensitive and high-risk sections of the corridor.
The planned road will be 36 feet wide and constructed to meet modern engineering standards, ensuring safety, resilience and long-term utility.
It is important to note that NESPAK\’s role is strictly limited to technical assessment. Public consultation or land-related discussions will only be carried out by the project head or designated focal person.
This project holds transformative potential for over 100,000 residents of Lotkoh, Garam Chashma, and greater Chitral and is seen as a critical link in Pakistan\’s future access to Central Asia.
It may be mentioned here that recently the Afghan authorities announced the completion of a road connecting the Badakhshan province with Shah Salim zero point through the district of Zebak.
In that context, the start of work on the road on Chitral side will be a major development not only for the progress of Garam Chashma and other parts of Chitral but also Pakistan as it will open up Central Asian countries for trade.
- (Khairuddin Shadani, Focal Person, Lotkoh).
This is Chitral – Garumchashma – Durah Pass road not Garumchashma Durah Pass road. Please clarify & correct it. Allignment Survey should make this road safe, short & all weather for national & international travellers.
I suggest that NESPAK team should involve locals of the area & their wisdom/knowledge to know all about the areas & as such ensure it’s safety & security/stability with quality. Locals to please note that survey at this stage is very important.
Liaquat CDM