The Pakistan Army has completed a 66-kilometre road track connecting Shagma in Astore with Manthokha in Skardu, improving road access between the two areas. The development was reported on October 8, 2026.
The road passes through difficult mountainous terrain and has reduced travel time between Astore and Skardu to only a few hours. It has also restored direct access to district headquarters for eight villages in the Phoota Khas Valley of Gultari.
The new route is expected to support local communities by making it easier to transport agricultural goods, livestock and other products between the two regions. Better road access could also help residents reach markets and essential services more easily.
The project adds to ongoing efforts to improve road connectivity in Gilgit-Baltistan. In April 2026, the federal government also approved several road projects in the region, including routes connecting Astore and Skardu with other areas.
