The Lowari Tunnel is a vital transportation passage in Pakistan’s Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province, connecting Dir District with Chitral District. This tunnel plays a crucial role in improving accessibility, boosting trade, and fostering tourism in the region. Before its construction, Chitral remained cut off from the rest of the country for almost five months each year due to heavy snowfall on the Lowari Pass. The tunnel now ensures year-round connectivity, making life easier for thousands of people.

Historical Background

The idea of a tunnel through Lowari Pass was first proposed in the 1950s, but construction didn’t start until 1975 under the government of Prime Minister Zulfikar Ali Bhutto. However, the project was halted due to political and financial constraints. It remained incomplete for decades, leaving the people of Chitral dependent on the dangerous Lowari Pass and Afghanistan’s routes for travel.

In 2005, the National Highway Authority (NHA) revived the project, and after multiple delays, the tunnel was finally inaugurated on July 20, 2017, by Prime Minister Shahid Khaqan Abbasi. The completion of this project was a historic milestone for Chitral and surrounding areas.

Technical Specifications of Lowari Tunnel

The 10.4 km tunnel is the longest road tunnel in Pakistan, surpassing the Khojak Tunnel (3.91 km) in Balochistan. It is designed to withstand harsh weather conditions and includes ventilation, drainage, and lighting systems for safety.

Importance of the Lowari Tunnel

1. Year-Round Connectivity

Before the tunnel, Chitral remained inaccessible for five months due to heavy snowfall on the Lowari Pass (3,118 meters above sea level). People had to take a long and dangerous detour through Afghanistan, which posed security risks. The tunnel now provides safe and reliable access to Chitral throughout the year.

2. Economic and Trade Benefits

The tunnel has significantly boosted trade and commerce by connecting Chitral with the rest of Pakistan. Businesses can now transport goods more easily, reducing costs and time. The tourism industry has also seen growth, with more visitors coming to explore Chitral, Kalash Valley, and Shandur Pass.

3. Reduced Travel Time & Cost

• Before the Tunnel: Travelers had to cross the Lowari Pass, which was dangerous and took 4–5 hours.
• After the Tunnel: Travel time through Lowari Tunnel is now only 15–20 minutes, making trips faster, safer, and more convenient.

4. Emergency and Health Benefits

Chitral’s population previously struggled with medical emergencies, as patients could not reach Peshawar or other major cities during winter. The tunnel has made it easier for ambulances, rescue teams, and supply trucks to reach Chitral without delay.

5. Strengthening National Security

The tunnel has improved the security and strategic importance of the region by allowing the Pakistan Army and other law enforcement agencies to move quickly in case of any threats.

Challenges and Issues

Despite its advantages, the Lowari Tunnel still faces some challenges:

1. Limited Hours of Operation

Initially, the tunnel was only open for a few hours per day, causing long traffic jams. However, efforts have been made to extend operational hours.

2. Poor Traffic Management

Many drivers do not follow traffic rules, leading to congestion inside the tunnel. Authorities need to enforce strict regulations to prevent accidents.

3. Need for Additional Infrastructure

To fully utilize the tunnel’s potential, better roads, parking areas, and service stations should be built near the entrance and exit points.

4. Harsh Weather Conditions

Snowfall and landslides around the tunnel entrance sometimes cause disruptions. Regular maintenance is required to keep the tunnel operational year-round.

Future Prospects and Recommendations

To enhance the benefits of the Lowari Tunnel, the government should consider:

✅ 24/7 Tunnel Operation – Ensure unrestricted access for travelers and traders.
✅ Traffic Management System – Implement cameras, speed monitoring, and strict lane discipline.
✅ Road Expansion – Improve roads leading to the tunnel to accommodate increasing traffic.
✅ Emergency Services – Establish medical centers and emergency response units near the tunnel.
✅ Promoting Tourism – Develop hotels, rest stops, and tourist attractions to encourage more visitors.

Nestled high in the northern reaches of Pakistan, the Deosai Plains stand as one of the most awe-inspiring and untamed landscapes on Earth. Known as the “Land of Giants,” these plains stretch across a vast plateau at an altitude of approximately 13,000 feet (4,000 meters) above sea level, making them one of the highest plateaus in the world. This unique natural wonder, located in the Gilgit-Baltistan region, offers a stunning blend of sweeping vistas, pristine wilderness, and rare wildlife, making it a true gem in Pakistan’s natural heritage.

A Natural Wonderland of Unparalleled Beauty

The Deosai Plains are often described as where the sky meets the earth, and for good reason. Standing on the vast expanse of the plateau, it feels as if you are at the very edge of the world, with nothing but the blue sky above and the sprawling grasslands below. The wide, open spaces are interrupted only by the occasional rolling hill, a distant snow-capped peak, or a river weaving its way through the landscape. The air is crisp and clear, and the silence of the plains is occasionally broken by the soft rustle of the wind or the distant call of a bird.

In the spring and summer months, Deosai transforms into a vibrant sea of wildflowers, with colorful blooms carpeting the plains as far as the eye can see. The sky remains an endless shade of blue, and at night, the starlit sky feels close enough to touch, offering some of the most incredible stargazing experiences anywhere in the world.

A Haven for Wildlife

One of the most remarkable aspects of the Deosai Plains is its rich biodiversity. It is home to a variety of rare and endangered species, most notably the Himalayan brown bear, which is found in very few places on Earth. Thanks to conservation efforts, the population of these bears is slowly recovering in the region. Visitors may also encounter other wildlife, including snow leopards, golden marmots, ibex, and a variety of birds, making it a haven for nature lovers and wildlife enthusiasts.

The Deosai National Park, established in 1993 to protect the wildlife and ecosystem of the region, plays a crucial role in preserving the unique flora and fauna that thrive in this high-altitude environment. The park is a testament to Pakistan’s commitment to conserving its natural heritage while allowing people to experience the wild beauty of the Deosai Plains.

Cultural and Historical Significance

The name “Deosai” translates to “Land of the Giants” in the local language, which is steeped in legend and folklore. Local myths tell of giants that once roamed the area, and this name adds a sense of mystique to the plains’ vast and otherworldly landscape.

For centuries, the Deosai Plains have also served as a natural boundary between the Karakoram and the western Himalayas. Historically, the area has been traversed by nomadic herders, and it still holds cultural significance for the indigenous communities that live in the surrounding valleys.

An Unforgettable Experience for Adventurers

Deosai is a dream destination for adventurers and outdoor enthusiasts. The rugged, untouched beauty of the plains provides a perfect setting for hiking, camping, and photography. Trekkers are drawn to the challenge of exploring the vast wilderness, where they can witness stunning landscapes and encounter rare wildlife in their natural habitat.

Sheosar Lake, located within the Deosai National Park, is one of the highest lakes in the world and a must-visit for travelers to the region. The serene, crystal-clear waters of the lake reflect the surrounding snow-capped peaks, creating a breathtaking view that is often considered one of the most beautiful in Pakistan.

Challenges and Conservation

Despite its beauty, the Deosai Plains face challenges from environmental changes and human activity. Climate change poses a significant threat to the delicate ecosystem of the region, affecting the wildlife and plant species that call Deosai home. Additionally, increased tourism has raised concerns about the impact on the environment. It is essential that conservation efforts continue to protect this fragile ecosystem for future generations to enjoy.

Conclusion: A Natural Wonder That Captures the Imagination

The Deosai Plains are more than just a natural wonder; they are a place where the raw beauty of the earth and sky come together in perfect harmony. Whether you’re standing on the vast plains gazing at the horizon, observing the rare wildlife, or camping under a blanket of stars, Deosai offers an experience like no other. It is a reminder of the untouched beauty that still exists in the world and the importance of preserving such places for the future. For those seeking adventure, tranquility, and a connection with nature, Deosai Plains is a must-visit destination—where the sky truly meets the earth, and nature’s breathtaking beauty is on full display

The nation is celebrating the 148th birth anniversary of the Father of the Nation, Quaid-e-Azam Muhammad Ali Jinnah today with national zeal and fervour.   

Today is a public holiday and national flag is hoisting atop all public and private buildings.

The day dawned with gun salutes in the federal and provincial capitals.

A graceful changing of the guard’s ceremony is being held at the mausoleum of Quaid-e-Azam Muhammad Ali Jinnah in Karachi.

Quran Khawani would also be held at the Mazar-e-Quaid.