Pakistan’s Motorways: Connecting Cities and Regions with High-Speed and Controlled-Access Routes

List of Motorways in Pakistan their routes and length: Overview of Motorway:

Pakistan boasts an extensive network of motorways, serving as vital transportation arteries connecting major cities and facilitating efficient travel across the country. These motorways not only link urban centers but also provide convenient access to popular tourist destinations. The inaugural motorway in Pakistan was the M-2, which commenced operations in 1997, stretching from Lahore to Islamabad. Over the years, the list of motorways in Pakistan has grown to sixteen, enhancing connectivity and accessibility for travelers nationwide.

In this article in detail we will discuss about motorways their route and length:

List of Motorway and their routes and length:

The motorways in Pakistan represent a network of multi-lane, high-speed, controlled access routes. Currently, there are a total of 16 motorways in Pakistan. Among these, 11 motorways are fully operational, while four are either undergoing development or are slated for future operation. Furthermore, there is one motorway that is partially operational while simultaneously under construction.

Name	Routes	Lanes	Length (KM)	Status
M-1	Peshawar–Islamabad	6	155	Operational
M-2	Islamabad–Lahore	6	375	Operational
M-3	Lahore–Abdul Hakeem	6	230	Operational
M-4	Pindi Bhattian–Multan	4-6	309	Operational
M-5	Multan–Sukkur	6	392	Operational
M-6	Sukkur–Hyderabad	6	306	Pending
M-7	Dadu–Hub	–	270	Planned
M-8	Ratodero–Gwadar	2	892	Partially Operational
M-9	Hyderabad–Karachi	6	136	Operational
M-10	Karachi Northern Bypass	2	57	Operational
M-11	Lahore-Sialkot	4	103	Operational
M-12	Sialkot-Kharian	4	70	Under Construction
M-13	Kharian-Rawalpindi	4	117	Under Construction
M-14	Islamabad-D.I-Khan	4	285	Operational
M-15	Hassan Abdal-Thakot	6-4-2	180	Operational
M-16	Swabi-Chakdara	4	160	Operational

List Of Motorway Routes length and Map

Peshawar – Islamabad Motorway (M-1):

The M-1 Motorway holds significant importance among the motorways in Pakistan, serving as a vital corridor for both passenger and commercial traffic. This highway links the capital city of Islamabad in the province of Punjab with Peshawar in the province of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa. Spanning approximately 155 kilometers, the M-1 Motorway was inaugurated in 2007. With six lanes and a controlled-access design, it maintains a speed limit of 120 kilometers per hour. Notably, the M-1 Motorway plays a crucial role in facilitating transportation to Afghanistan and Central Asia, relieving traffic congestion on the heavily utilized N5 highway. Renowned for its superior construction and maintenance standards, the M-1 Motorway offers a safer and more efficient route for travelers.

Featuring 27 minor bridges, 137 underpasses, 18 flyovers, 571 culverts, 14 interchanges, and crossing bridges, the M-1 Motorway showcases impressive infrastructure. It spans the Kabul, Haro, and Indus rivers through three major bridges, enhancing connectivity and facilitating smooth travel across regions.

Islamabad – Lahore (M-2):

The M-2 Motorway holds a significant place as the inaugural motorway among Pakistan Motorways and the pioneer motorway in South Asia. Spanning 375 kilometers through the picturesque landscapes of Punjab, the M2 Islamabad-Lahore Motorway commenced operations in 1997. This six-lane highway features 22 interchanges strategically located along its route, including notable points such as the M2-M1 Junction, Thalian Interchange, Chakri Interchange, Neelah Dullah Interchange, Kallar Kahar Interchange, Lilla Interchange, Bhera Interchange, Kot Momin Interchange, Makhdoom Interchange, and Babu Sabu Interchange.

Remarkably, the M-2 Motorway serves as a potential landing or takeoff site for numerous fighter jets of the Pakistan Air Force, adding to its unique characteristics. There are five distinct locations for fueling stations and service areas on each side of the M-2 Lahore-Islamabad Motorway. Notable rest areas include the Kalar Kahar Service Area and the Chakri Service Area. These service terminals spaced approximately 60–80 kilometers apart, offer convenient fueling and amenities for travelers. Additionally, some of Pakistan’s renowned restaurants are located within these rest spots along the M2 Lahore-Islamabad Motorway, enhancing the overall experience for motorists.

Lahore – Abdul Hakeem (M-3)

Construction on the M3 Motorway commenced in December 2015, with operational activities starting in March 2019. This vital transportation artery spans 230 kilometers, linking Abdul Hakeem and Lahore and ranking among Pakistan’s busiest motorways. Originating at the intersection of the M2 Motorway in Lahore, it extends to the junction of the M4 Pindi Bhattian-Multan Motorway in Abdul Hakeem. Similar to other motorways in Pakistan, the M-3 features six lanes and boasts four interchanges strategically positioned along its route. These include the Vehari Road Interchange, Bahawalpur Road Interchange, Shah Shams Tabrez Interchange, and Sher Shah Interchange. Additionally, three rest stops and gas stations provide essential facilities for motorists along the M3 Motorway, ensuring a convenient and comfortable travel experience.

Pindi Bhattian – Multan (M-4):

Among the operational motorways in Pakistan, the M-4 Pindi Bhattian-Multan Motorway stands out as a significant transportation route, spanning 309 kilometers. This expansive roadway features four lanes on each side, designed to accommodate heavy traffic volumes efficiently. Serving as a vital link within Punjab province, the M-4 Motorway connects various localities including Rawalpindi, Faisalabad, Toba-Tek-Singh, Shorkot, and Khanewal. Similar to other prominent motorways in Pakistan, the M-4 is equipped with multiple interchanges facilitating seamless connectivity to key highways such as the M-2, M-3, and M-5 Motorways, enhancing accessibility and travel convenience for motorists.

Multan – Sukkur Motorway (M-5):

The M-5 Motorway, linking Multan and Sukkur, was inaugurated in November 2019. Stretching across 392 kilometers, the M-5 Multan-Sukkur Motorway constitutes a segment of the broader 1,100-kilometer Karachi-Peshawar Motorway project. Recognized as a pivotal initiative by the CPECC (China Pakistan Economic Corridor Company), the M-5 Motorway significantly reduces transportation duration for goods traveling from the Karakoram Highway to Karachi and Gwadar. It comprises a six-lane highway with eleven interchanges that connect many cities, including Rahim-Yar-Khan, Sukkur, Sadiqabad, and Multan. Notable features of the M-5 highway include 426 underpasses, 10 flyovers, 10 rest areas, and 12 service areas, collectively enhancing its functionality and facilitating smoother travel experiences for commuters.

Sukkur – Hyderabad Motorway (M-6):

The M6 Motorway, linking Sukkur with Hyderabad, is currently in the construction phase and is yet to be opened for public transportation. It is set to go live to tourists in 2024.This project is part of the broader China-Pakistan Economic Corridor Eastern Alignment (CPEC), with an estimated construction cost of approximately $1.7 billion. Similar to other motorways in Pakistan, the M-6 will feature six lanes and a maximum speed limit of 120 km/hr. It will include 243 underpasses, 89 bridges, and 15 interchanges. Once completed, the M-6 highway, spanning 306 kilometers, will facilitate connectivity between Peshawar and Karachi.

Dadu – Hub (M-7):

Among the roster of motorways in Pakistan, the Dadu-Hub (M-7) Motorway stands out as an ongoing construction project awaiting completion. Once finished, M-7 will serve as a vital link between Dadu in the Sindh province and Hub in the Baluchistan province. The proposed length of the Dadu-Hub (M-7) Motorway is 270 kilometers. This motorway will establish a crucial connection, reducing travel distances between Ratodero and Karachi to approximately 540 kilometers. Moreover, it forms part of the integral north-south route spanning from Islamabad to Karachi.

Ratodero – Gwadar (M-8):

Among Pakistan’s motorways, the Ratodero – Gwadar M-8 Motorway holds the distinction of being the longest, spanning an impressive 892 kilometers. Notably, the M-8 is unique among Pakistan’s motorways as it is both under construction and partially operational simultaneously. This extensive highway serves as a crucial link between Sukkur and Larkana to the port city of Gwadar. Originating from Ratodero in Sindh province, the M-8 traverses through Balochistan, passing near Khuzdar and Turbat before intersecting with the Makran Coastal Highway just east of Gwadar. Throughout its route in Balochistan, the M-8 runs close to significant landmarks such as the Mirani Dam and crosses the Dasht River. Upon completion, the M-8 Motorway will feature four lanes, enhancing connectivity and facilitating smoother travel experiences for commuters

Hyderabad – Karachi (M-9):

The M9 Hyderabad-Karachi Motorway, linking the two major cities in Sindh, Karachi and Hyderabad, is an important part of Pakistan’s motorway network. Constructed over the existing Karachi-Hyderabad Super Highway, the M-9 underwent extensive renovation to transform it into a six-lane motorway featuring controlled exit and entry points. Stretching 136 kilometers, the M-9 boasts eight interchanges strategically positioned along its length. Notably, prominent housing societies such as Bahria Town and DHA line the M-9 Expressway in Karachi. Recently, one of South Asia’s longest interchanges on the Motorway-9 has opened, revolutionizing infrastructure connectivity between Bahria Town in Karachi and Sukkur. This innovative interchange comprises a 400-meter-wide, 18-lane two-way carriageway to facilitate seamless travel for commuters. Inspired by the Shaikh Zayd Road in Dubai, the architecture of the newly completed interchange showcases modern design elements. Presently, the National Highway Authority (NHA) and the Federal Government are collaborating to develop plans for expanding the M9 Motorway from six to eight lanes. This expansion initiative aims to efficiently manage vehicle movement on one of Pakistan’s busiest motorways

Karachi Northern Bypass (M-10):

The Karachi Northern Bypass, also referred to as the M10 Motorway, stands as a significant infrastructure project in Pakistan, stretching 57 kilometers in length. This two-lane expressway commenced operations in 2007, with plans underway to expand it to four lanes in the near future. Serving as a direct link between Karachi Port and the M-9 Karachi-Hyderabad Motorway, the M-10 facilitates swift transportation for freight carriers and commuters alike. Recognizing its importance, the National Highway Authority (NHA) has designated this route as a motorway, officially naming it the M-10 Karachi Motorway. Along its route, the M-10 Motorway features three major interchanges: the M9 interchange, the Trumpet Intersection, and the N-25 Interchange. Spanning from Muhammad Ali Jinnah Road to the KPT flyover, the M-10 highway plays a crucial role in enhancing connectivity and easing traffic congestion in Karachi

Lahore – Sialkot (M-11):

Ranked as the 11th motorway in Pakistan, the Sialkot-Lahore Motorway (M-11) serves as a vital north-south artery, connecting the cities of Sialkot and Lahore through the eastern regions of Punjab. The government allocated a substantial budget of 44 billion for its construction, underscoring its strategic importance. Fully operational since March 18, 2020, M-11 has drastically reduced travel time between Sialkot and Lahore, making the journey which previously took over 2 hours via the N-5 route now just a 50-minute drive. Covering a total distance of 103 kilometers, this four-lane highway boasts 20 bridges, eight flyovers, nine interchanges, and 18 underpasses, enhancing both efficiency and safety for commuters.

One notable feature of M-11 is its direct connection to the M2 and N5 highways via the Lahore Link Road at Kala-Shah-Kaku. The route traverses east of Gujranwala, Kamoki, and Daska before concluding in Sambrial, further bolstering connectivity across the region.

Sialkot – Kharian Motorway (M-12)

M-12 is one of the ongoing construction projects among the Motorways of Pakistan, awaiting its operational debut. Also known as the Sialkot-Kharian highway, construction on Pakistan’s M-12 highway commenced in July 2022. Once completed, it will serve as a vital link connecting the cities of Sialkot and Kharian. Spanning a total length of 70 kilometers, M-12 will feature five interchanges, a service facility, and a noteworthy 1-kilometer-long bridge spanning the Chenab River. Designed for a speed of 120 km/h (75 mph), the M-12 is slated for completion within two years. This four-lane highway, with the potential for expansion to six lanes, promises to enhance connectivity and facilitate smoother travel experiences for commuters upon its inauguration.

Kharian – Rawalpindi (M-13):

M-13 stands as another Pakistan Motorway currently under construction, awaiting its operational launch. Also recognized as the Kharian-Rawalpindi highway, construction on Pakistan’s M-13 highway commenced in September 2022. As implied by its name, M-13 will establish a vital link between Kharian and Rawalpindi. Spanning a distance of 117 kilometers (73 mi), this expressway will traverse the Salt Range between Dina and Sohawa via two twin-tube tunnels, measuring 1.3 km (0.81 mi) and 0.6 km (0.37 mi) in length, respectively. Additionally, M-13 will feature 26 bridges, including one over the River Jhelum, along with eight interchanges and two service areas. Designed for a speed of 120 km/h (75 mph), the M-13 is projected to be completed within two years. This four-lane highway, with the potential for expansion to six lanes, promises to significantly reduce travel time between Islamabad and Lahore, cutting it by one hour compared to the M2 Motorway. Furthermore, the introduction of M-13 will alleviate traffic congestion on the overcrowded N5 Highway, running parallel to the new motorway.

Islamabad – Dera-Ismail-Khan Motorway (M-14):

Motorway is a four-lane North-South route that resembles several other Pakistani motorways. This motorway facilitates high-speed road connections between the Islamabad-Rawalpindi metropolitan region and the southern regions of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province, including Dera Ismail Khan. Forming part of the Western Alignment of the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor, this 285-kilometer-long (177 mi) highway plays a crucial role in regional connectivity. Stretching from Dera Ismail Khan in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa to the Hakla Interchange on the M-1 Motorway, near Fateh Jang in Punjab, the M-14 Motorway was inaugurated on 5 January 2022. It boasts an impressive infrastructure, featuring 119 underpasses, 33 flyovers, 36 bridges, and 11 interchanges. Additionally, it includes a 100-meter-wide right-of-way, allowing for potential future expansion of the four-lane road to accommodate six lanes, should traffic demand increase.

Hasan Abdal – Thakot (M15):

The Hazara Motorway, also referred to as the M-15 Motorway, spans 180 kilometers and comprises seven sections. Initial segments were completed in 2017, with the remainder finished by 2020. This route links cities in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa like Havelian, Abbottabad, and Mansehra to the Burhan Interchange near Hasan Abdal in Punjab. Featuring tall bridges and well-maintained interchanges with robust security measures, the M-15 is a crucial component of the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC), enhancing regional connectivity and fostering economic growth.

Swabi – Chakdara Motorway (M-16):

The Swat Motorway, the latest addition to Pakistan’s extensive highway network, spans 160 kilometers, constituting a significant development project featuring a two-way and limited-access expressway with multiple lanes for convenient travel. The Frontier Works Organization (FWO) spearheaded the project, investing PKR 36 billion to complete it. Designated as the M-16, the Swat Motorway stretches from the Karnal Sher Khan Interchange to the Chakdara Bridge on National Highway (N-45). While the first phase of the Swat Motorway was completed in 2019, construction for the second phase is currently underway, further enhancing connectivity and transportation infrastructure in the region.

Importance of Motorways:

Pakistan’s reliance on trade with its allies underscores the significance of its motorways, integral components of the National Trade Corridor Project. This initiative seeks to link Pakistan with three pivotal seaports on the Arabian Sea: Port Bin Qasim, Gwadar, and Karachi Port, as well as the entirety of the nation. These roads play a crucial role in facilitating swift transportation between China, Afghanistan, Iran, and neighboring countries, enhancing regional connectivity and fostering economic growth.

Following reason that motorways are important:
Efficiency
Economic Development
Environmental Benefits

FAQs:

1. Why Motorways are safer than other highways?
Motorways are safer than other roads due to their design for high-speed travel and reduced potential for accidents. With at least two lanes in each direction separated by a median strip, motorways minimize the risk of head-on collisions and other accidents. Additionally, they have fewer intersections and access points, further enhancing safety during travel.

2. What is its importance for tourism?
Transportation is integral to facilitating tourist mobility, offering diverse options such as air travel, ground transportation, and public transit to enhance convenience. Beyond mere conveyance, transportation can significantly enrich the overall tourist experience, imbuing it with a sense of adventure and exploration. For instance, journeying by train or boat can offer unique and memorable experiences, adding depth and excitement to the travel itinerary.

Conclusion:

In summary, motorways are essential to Pakistan’s transportation system, providing fast, efficient travel routes connecting major cities and regions. With their superior safety features and role in stimulating economic development, continued investment in motorway construction and maintenance is crucial for Pakistan’s growth and prosperity.