Tangir-Darel Expressway Inaugurated to Transform Gilgit-Baltistan’s Remote Valleys 2025
Tangir-Darel Expressway Inaugurated to Transform Gilgit-Baltistan’s Remote Valleys
In a significant step toward regional development and connectivity, Chief Minister Haji Gulbar Khan officially inaugurated the Tangir-Darel Expressway on Tuesday, August 5, 2025. The Rs. 10 billion project is being financed under the Public Sector Development Programme (PSDP) and is poised to bring long-overdue infrastructure improvements to the remote and flood-prone valleys of Tangir and Darel in the Diamer district of Gilgit-Baltistan.1
This 82-kilometer-long expressway is more than just a road it’s a lifeline for isolated communities that have suffered for decades due to geographical inaccessibility and recurring natural disasters.
A Vision Turned into Reality
At a vibrant inauguration ceremony held in Tangir Valley, Chief Minister Gulbar Khan termed the project a “historic breakthrough” and a bold step forward in addressing the chronic neglect faced by the region.
“For decades, Tangir and Darel have suffered due to inaccessibility. This project marks the beginning of a new era of development,” Khan stated. His words reflect not only the sentiment of the local population but also the growing recognition that infrastructure is key to unlocking Gilgit-Baltistan’s socio-economic potential.
Tangir-Darel Expressway: The Numbers and the Plan
The project features two major segments Tangir Expressway and Darel Expressway with over Rs. 6.03 billion earmarked for their development. Of this, Rs. 5.09 billion is specifically allocated for construction work, which is already underway despite the project’s formal initiation date being in August 2025.
Key Highlights:
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Total Length: 82 kilometers
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Total Budget: Rs. 10 billion
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Construction Allocation: Rs. 5.09 billion
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Start Date: August 2025 (early work already underway)
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Expected Completion: November 2027
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Work Completed So Far: 23%+
Despite being in an early phase, the expressway has already achieved over 23% completion, a sign of the government’s seriousness in delivering on its promises.
Strategic Importance Amid Climate Challenges
The timing of the project couldn’t be more critical. The Gilgit-Baltistan region has recently faced increasing disruptions due to landslides, cloudbursts, and glacial floods. Iconic routes like the Babusar Pass and Karakoram Highway (KKH) have been subject to frequent closures, severely affecting transportation, tourism, and emergency services.
In this context, the Tangir-Darel Expressway is not just a regional development project it is a strategic necessity. The new road is expected to:
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Provide an alternate trade and travel route during closures of KKH and Babusar Pass.
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Enable emergency services and disaster relief access in an area frequently hit by climate-induced disasters.
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Open up new economic opportunities, especially in agriculture, tourism, and trade.
Tangir and Darel: From Isolation to Integration
For decades, the people of Tangir and Darel have faced the harsh reality of living in isolation, with limited access to markets, schools, hospitals, and administrative centers. The new expressway will drastically reduce travel times and costs, allowing residents to access basic services with ease.
In the past, even minor landslides or flooding would cut off entire valleys for days or weeks. Now, with a modern expressway, residents will no longer be prisoners of the terrain.
This will also encourage internal migration, investment, and tourism, driving local economies forward.
Beyond Roads: A Package of Development
The expressway inauguration was not a standalone announcement. Chief Minister Gulbar Khan also revealed a package of additional development projects aimed at improving the region’s living standards and supporting the new transport infrastructure.
These include:
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New Expressways: To further connect Diamer with other parts of Gilgit-Baltistan and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa.
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Water Supply Schemes: Valued at Rs. 5 billion, these will improve clean water access in rural areas.
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RCC Bridge Construction: A Rs. 350 million bridge to enhance connectivity and reduce flood risks.
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Healthcare Initiatives: Including mobile clinics and upgraded rural health centers.
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Agricultural Support Projects: To boost local food production and sustainability.
These projects represent a holistic approach to development, ensuring that improved infrastructure is accompanied by essential public services.
What Locals and Analysts Are Saying
The local population welcomed the announcement with open arms. Community elders and traders see it as a long-awaited dream coming true. Farmers, who previously lost produce due to poor road access, hope for better market linkage and higher profits.
Policy analysts have also praised the move. Infrastructure specialist Dr. Aftab Hussain noted, “This expressway will be a game-changer. It not only opens up the valleys but also provides climate resilience by offering an alternative to high-risk roads.”
This 82-kilometer-long expressway is more than just a road it’s a lifeline for isolated communities that have suffered for decades due to geographical inaccessibility and recurring natural disasters.
A Step Toward Inclusive Growth
The Tangir-Darel Expressway aligns closely with the government’s broader vision for inclusive growth, poverty reduction, and climate adaptation in northern Pakistan. By connecting some of the most underserved areas to the national development grid, this project reflects a shift toward balanced regional development.
It also shows a strong commitment to federal-provincial collaboration, with the PSDP playing a vital role in funding.
Looking Ahead: Challenges and Commitments
Despite the positive outlook, the road to completion won’t be easy. The mountainous terrain, erratic weather, and logistical challenges could cause delays. However, the early progress and strong local support provide optimism that the project will stay on track.
The Gilgit-Baltistan government has promised transparency and community engagement throughout the construction phase to ensure accountability and maintain public trust.
Conclusion
The inauguration of the Tangir-Darel Expressway is more than just the launch of a construction project it’s a symbol of hope, a bridge to opportunity, and a statement of intent from the government to uplift neglected regions. As bulldozers move earth and foundations are laid, a brighter, more connected future begins for the people of Tangir and Darel.
