ISLAMABAD, Nov 28, 2025: The Central Development Working Party (CDWP) has approved the construction of 48km Chakdara-Chitral Road project (N-45) Section III: Kalkatak to Chitral with an estimated cost of Rs10.96 billion.
The project is proposed to be financed through the Public Sector Development Programme (PSDP) and will be funded by a Korean loan from Korea EXIM Bank.
The project aims to improve, widen and rehabilitate a key section of the N-45, specifically the Kalkatak–Chitral section (47.98 km), transforming it into a 7.3-meter wide single carriageway with two-meter shoulders on each side. The scope of work includes the construction of five new bridges, 145 culverts and essential retaining and slope stabilization works.
The project will enhance mobility and accessibility in the northwestern part of Pakistan, particularly benefiting the whole Chitral valley. The bottleneck area, where the town is situated, will be alleviated through the creation of an alternative bypass route, easing traffic congestion and reducing the risk of traffic accidents.
Additionally, the project is expected to bring several benefits, including savings in vehicle operating costs and reduced travel time. It will uplift the economic conditions of the local community, foster trade relations with neighboring provinces, and increase the region’s tourism potential.
Related:
PC-1 of Kalkatak-Chitral road sent to ECNEC.