For many years Pakistan’s strategic location has positioned it as a natural gateway between South Asia, Central Asia, and beyond. Yet realizing this potential required modern infrastructure capable of moving people and goods quickly, safely, and efficiently. The country has been making that idea a reality with the support of the CAREC Program.

A major step forward came with the National Trade Corridor Highway Investment Program, which upgraded key sections of the E35 expressway forming part of CAREC Corridor 5. Implemented between 2015 and 2017 with $327 million in financing from ADB and the United Kingdom, the project constructed the Hassanabdal–Sarai Saleh and Sarai Saleh–Havelian sections, creating a modern six-lane highway linked to Pakistan’s M-1 motorway.

The improvements have strengthened Pakistan’s role as a regional transit hub connecting Central Asia and East Asia with South Asia and providing landlocked countries with access to Karachi’s seaports. Faster and more reliable transport has accelerated the movement of freight and passengers along one of the region’s most important trade routes.

The difference has been remarkable. For instance, travel time between Peshawar and Karachi fell by 42 hours compared with 2006, and freight transport costs declined. Vehicle speeds increased substantially across the upgraded sections, reducing travel delays and lowering operating costs for transport companies. Another notable change is improved efficiency which encouraged greater use of the corridor, with daily traffic volumes rising sharply in the years following completion.

As connectivity improved, so did access to opportunities: better road connectivity has improved access to industrial centers such as Hattar Industrial Estate, and strengthened links to markets, schools, and healthcare facilities.

The upgraded highway has also supported tourism by making travel more convenient. As more people and businesses take advantage of improved connectivity, the CAREC Corridor 5 continues to contribute to economic growth and regional integration.

By investing in modern transport infrastructure, Pakistan is not only improving domestic mobility but also helping build stronger links across the CAREC region. The transformation of Corridor 5 demonstrated how strategic infrastructure investments can unlock trade, connect communities, and create new opportunities for sustainable development.