By Abdul Ghani

China has proposed a meeting of the Joint Technical Working Group (JTWG) in Beijing to map out the implementation framework for the Karakoram Highway (KKH) Phase-II (Thakot-Raikot) project.

According to a document available with Wealth Pakistan, the Chinese Ministry of Transport has proposed the JTWG meeting to discuss implementation of the strategically important road project, but the date is yet to be decided.

The project has already secured a procedural milestone, with its PC-I approved by the Executive Committee of the National Economic Council (ECNEC) in June 2024.

The Chinese side has proposed a two-phase execution plan. Under Phase-IIA, the 102-kilometre Thor Nullah-Raikot section is planned for execution over four years. This would be followed by Phase-IIB, involving the upgrading of 139 kilometres, comprising the 103-kilometre Thakot-Dasu section, 34-kilometre Sazin-Thor Nullah section and two kilometres of link roads.

Pakistan submitted a financing request for Phase-IIA to the Chinese government of in June 2025. However, confirmation regarding the availability of funds is still awaited, making the proposed technical discussions in Beijing particularly essential for the project's future.

The KKH Phase-II is strategically significant for Pakistan-China connectivity, with the Thakot-Raikot corridor forming an important component of road infrastructure in the country's northern region.

Meanwhile, work is also progressing on another proposed connectivity project in the north. The 39.68-kilometre road between Kel and Rattu (Gorikot), including a tunnel at Shounter, is currently at the stage of feasibility study and detailed design. The study is expected to be completed in October 2026, after which the PC-I will be processed for approval.

The proposed Beijing meeting is expected to provide an opportunity for both countries to address the outstanding issues, particularly financing and implementation, and chart a way forward for the KKH Phase-II project.

Credit: INP-WealthPk