The Margalla Hills—the foothills of the Himalayas—are a series of small-elevation hills located north of Islamabad, Pakistan. Margalla Range has an area of 12,605 hectares. The hill range nestles between an elevation of 685 meters at the western end and 1,604 meters on its east.
Etymology
Two different legends describe the origin of the word 'Margalla'. According to the first legend, these hills have always been known as an abode of snakes. Mar means 'snake' in Persian and galla means 'herd', therefore Margalla means a place with a lot of snakes.
According to the second legend, the word 'Margalla' was derived from Mar Galla, meaning 'to strangulate'. Mar means 'hit' and Galla means 'neck'. It is believed that there were lots of bandits and robbers who used these hills as a sanctuary and would strangle travelers in order to rob them.
Flora and Fauna
The vegetation of the southern slopes is short and stunted, comprising deciduous and evergreen trees with diverse shrub growth. In the north stand pines, Eucalyptus, Peepal trees (Ficus religiosa), Paper Mulberry and groves of oak.
The Margalla Hills are home to various species of wildlife, including monkeys, exotic birds and carnivores such as the rare and presently endangered Margalla leopard.
Commonly found animals in the Margallas include Rhesus monkeys, jackals (often heard cackling at night near the hills), wild boars, porcupines, mongoose and the pangolin or scaly anteater. The wild boar in particular can be seen at some of the least expected places in the city. While they generally stay close to the hills, occasionally (particularly in winter when the hills are cold) they can be seen quite far from the Margallas. Often the boars will have small hideouts in the green belts in and around the city. The increasing practice of throwing litter near the hills also attracts both monkeys and wild boar to come and forage through the rubbish. The wild boars can be quite large, very solidly built and usually travel in large groups.
Less common are Margalla leopards, which usually remain high up in the hills. Even more rare are the elusive snow leopards. These beautiful animals confine themselves to the highest ridges of the range.
There is another group of animals that deserves mention: the snakes of Margalla Hills. There are a number of species of poisonous snakes in the area, including cobras, Russell's Vipers and kraits—known in local parlance as the half-minute killer. The snakes hibernate in the winter months; but tread carefully in the hotter months and particularly the monsoon months, when snakes abound. While they are to be found mainly in and around the hills, occasionally an overgrown garden can prove the ideal home.
Hiking and trekking
The Margallas are excellent for hiking and cater to both the regular serious hikers and the less serious occasional enthusiasts.
For foreigners, it is advisable to go for hiking in a group, because a few incidents of mugging have been reported in the last few years. The safest and most frequented hike path is from the ZOO park to Daman-e-Koh. The best season for hiking is from February to April, when there is less rain and the weather is extremely pleasant.
Asian Study Group (a community service organization) conducts hikes from October to April. Details about hiking trails and further information can be found in the latest edition of the book called Hiking in and around Islamabad, available at select book shops in F-7 Markaz and Kohsar Market, published by Asian Study Group for the Islamabad community.
June 25, 2009
Margalla Hills
Islamabad Early History
The relatively young city of Islamabad has over thousands of years of history in its record books. Islamabad Capital Territory, located in the Pothohar Plateau, is regarded to be one of the earliest sites of human settlement in Asia. Situated at one end of the Indus Valley Civilization, this area was the first habitation of the Aryan community from Central Asia. Islamabad was one of the routes though which the armies from North and North West passed to invade Indian Subcontinent. Many great armies such as those of Alexander the Great, Genghis Khan, Timur and King Abdali have used this route on their way to Indian Subcontinent. Relics and human skulls have been found dating back to 5000 B.C. that show this region was home to Stone Age man who used the banks of Swaan River as their settlement. Modern Islamabad is based on the old settlement known as Saidpur.
Construction and Development
In 1958, a commission was constituted to select a suitable site for the National Capital with particular emphasis on location, climate, logistics and defence requirements along with other attributes. After extensive study, research and thorough review of various sites, the commission recommended the area Northeast of Rawalpindi. A Greek firm of architects Konstantinos Apostolos Doxiadis designed the master plan of the city which was triangular in shape, based on a Grid plan, with its apex towards the Margalla Hills.
17 major changes have been made in the Master Plan of Islamabad since the Greek architects Doxiadis Associates prepared it in 1960.[7]
As Capital of Pakistan
When Pakistan was created in 1947, Karachi was the first capital. However, in 1960 Islamabad was constructed as a forward capital due to the following reasons:
* Traditionally, the development was focused on the colonial centre of Karachi and President Ayub Khan wanted it to be equally distributed.
* Karachi was located at one end of the country and a capital which was easily accessible from all parts of the country was needed.
* Karachi was vulnerable to attacks from the sea while Islamabad, by contrast, is 750 miles inland and surrounded by mountains.
* A statement was needed to be made regarding Kashmir territories in the North, which were disputed with India.
* It was also closer to the GHQ which was, and still is, in Rawalpindi.
* The climate in Islamabad is favourable compared to Lahore.
Islamabad
Islamabad (help·info) (Urdu: اسلام آباد) Islāmabād (Meaning "Abode of Islam") is the capital of Pakistan, and is the tenth largest city in Pakistan. The Rawalpindi/Islamabad metropolitan area is the third largest in Pakistan with a population of over 4.5 million inhabitants, 1.5 million in Islamabad and three million in Rawalpindi.
Islamabad is located in the Potohar Plateau in the north of the country, within the Islamabad Capital Territory. The region has historically been a part of the crossroads of Punjab and the North-West Frontier Province, Margalla pass being a gateway to the North-West Frontier Province.
The city was built during the 1960s to replace Karachi as Pakistan's capital. However the capital was not moved directly from Karachi to Islamabad but first moved from Karachi to Rawalpindi then to Islamabad. The development of the country was focused on Karachi and President Ayub Khan wanted it to be equally distributed.
Islamabad is one of the greenest and well-planned cities of South Asia. The city is well-organized and divided into different sectors and zones. Islamabad is also home to the Faisal Masjid which is well known for its architecture and immense size. Islamabad has been ranked as a Gamma world city, as of 2008
June 23, 2009
April 25, 2008
Attractions Around Rawalpindi
Murree :
Murree is known as Malika-e-Kohsar, which means the Queen of Hills. Murree is only an hour's drive northeast of Islamabad. From Rawalpindi it is only 64 km and at an altitude of 2,286 meters. Murree where lofty peaks tower above green pine-covered slopes, is one of the most popular summer resorts in Pakistan. Murree spreads along the top of a ridge for about five kilometers (three miles). At the northeast end is Kashmir Point, with views across the valley of the Jhelum River into Azad Kashmir. At the southwest end is Pindi Point, looking back towards Rawalpindi and Islamabad. Between the two runs The Mall, at the center of, which is the main shopping area, where most people congregate. Chair Lifts in Murree give a ride from Bansara Gali (below Murree) to Pindi Point, the other to the top of Patriata hill (on the road to Karor).
Salgran :
Driving through pine country on the smoothly carpeted road to Murree, the Salgran roadside facility is situated 29 km from Rawalpindi. Salgran has a well-developed parking area, snack bar and washroom for travelers. The well laid out lawns with shaded seating areas blend with the tranquil environment.
Charra Pani :
At Charra Pani, 40 km from Rawalpindi, the landscape becomes more spectacular. The TDCP roadside facility is very tastefully set on the densely wooded slopes of the Murree Hills, the architecture blending unobtrusively with the natural surroundings. Charra Pani has a snack bar as well as washroom facilities for travelers.
Bhurban :
Bhurban is a minor resort eight kilometers (five miles) from Murree on the road leading northeast to Kohala and the Jhelum Valley. The golf course here is open only to members. From near the Pearl Continental Hotel you can take one of the many delightful paved walks through the woods.
Patriata :
Patriata is 25 km from Murree. It has become a new tourist resort. There is a chairlift and cable car system, which takes visitors upto Patriata Ridge in two stages from Gulehra Gali. The first stage is by chair lift up to Patriata Bazaar. From here visitors transfer to cable car gondolas for the ride up to Patriata Ride. A restaurant has also been established. Further plans include development of a wildlife park at the mid-station.
Ayubia :
Khairagali, Changlagali, Khanspur and Ghora Dhaka, these four mini resorts spread over an area of 26 km have been developed into a resort complex called Ayubia. In addition to riding trails, hiking places and picnic spots, Ayubia has a chair lift, which like a ski-lift, takes you up to the summit of the nearby range for a panoramic view of the forested hills. Ayubia is 26 km from Murree.
The Galis :
Nathiagali :
Perhaps the most sought after is the beautiful Nathiagali perched 2501 meters high about 32 km away from Murree. The bracing air of the surrounding mountains is as pure as fresh spring water.
Dungagali :
Dungagali is a picturesque small resort situated on the slopes of the Mukshpuri hill (2376 m.). It commands a charming view of a series of wooded spurs projecting towards the River Jhelum on the western side. From Dungagali one can climb the 2813-m peak of Mukhshpuri, which is the highest point in the range. Natural springs abound on the slopes. It is 30 km from Murree.
Khairagali :
Khairagali is 16 km from Murree at an elevation of 2346 m and commands a panoramic view on either side of the ridge.
Changlagali is 16 km from Murree at an altitude of 2559 m. There is a rest house located in the most picturesque surroundings.
Rawalpindi Weather
Weather :
Rawalpindi Weather may be considered as extreme. In winters session sometimes it falls below freezing and summers are rather hot.
Sometimes it goes up to 46 degrees Celsius.
The climate is varied and interesting.
There are five well-defined seasons
1: Spring: from mid-February to mid-April.
2: Summer: from mid-April to mid-July.
3: Monsoon: from mid-July to end of September.
4: Autumn: from October to November.
5: Winter: from December to mid-February.
Temperature and rainfall :
Temperature and rainfall at different periods is as follows:
Winter : November - February 9°C - 25°C ( Rainfall -16 mm )
Spring : March - April 16°C - 38°C ( Rainfall -20 mm )
Summer : May - September 26°C - 38°C ( Rainfall -74 mm )
Autumn : October - November 17°C - 37°C ( Rainfall -10 mm )
April 23, 2008
Rawalpindi- How to reach, Section II
Section II - Travel Within Pakistan
By Air -
PIA serves 38 domestic airports with scheduled connections including multiple daily flights between major cities of Punjab like Multan, Lahore, Islamabad/Rawalpindi and Peshawar. Two private airlines, Aero Asia and Bhoja Air, also serve Lahore, Faisalabad and Islamabad/Rawalpindi. PIA has daily flights to Islamabad/Rawalpindi.
Rawalpindi/Islamabad, airport is actually located outside of Islamabad, closer to the city of Rawalpindi, in an area known as Chaklala. Being the main airport for the Pakistani capital it often hosts officials and citizens from other nations. Airport is closer to Rawalpindi than to Islamabad, and it serves the city along with the capital.
By Road -
Pakistan has an extensive network of roads and highways, linking every town. There are several highways like Grand Trunk Road (G.T. Road) between Lahore and Peshawar and Indus Highway linking Peshawar with the Southern Punjab. A landmark has been achieved with the completion of Lahore-Islamabad Motorway, which has opened the remote area of the Salt Range for visitors.
You will find all types of public transport in Punjab ranging from Taxis, auto-rickshaws, vans to tongas (horse & cartridge) and mini-buses, which are used for traveling within the city/town/village limits, whereas air-conditioned, non air-conditioned and deluxe types of buses, vans and coaches regularly ply between major cities and tourist destinations.
Transport Wing of Tourism Development Corporation of Punjab provides comfortable transport system to the different tourist destinations on regular and seasonal basis. The transport system is equipped with a fleet of luxury A/C buses and operated from Tourist Information Centers located in the heart of major cities of Punjab. Advance booking is available round the clock at the terminals, booking is also be made on telephone.
At present Lahore-Multan-Lahore, Lahore-Rawalpindi-Lahore, Lahore-Murree-Lahore, Multan-Rawalpindi-Multan services are in operation.
Lahore-Swat-Lahore, Rawalpindi-Swat-Rawalpindi, Rawalpindi-Balakot-Rawalpindi, Multan-Murree-Multan are seasonal services. Vans, Coaster, Buses are available for special booking.
TDCP also offers package tours for tourists.
By Train -
Pakistan has over 12,700 kilometers of railways, including 8,500 kms inherited from the British. Main line runs from Karachi to Peshawar connecting important tourist places like Moenjodaro, Sukkur, Bahawalpur, Multan, Lahore, Rawalpindi/Islamabad, Taxila and Peshawar. There are several daily trains running on these lines, however, Shalimar Express (Lahore-Karachi) and Railcar (Lahore-Rawalpindi) have more comfortable air-conditioned compartments for travelers.
Pakistan Railways allow a 25% concession in all classes, to foreign tourists and 50% discount for foreign students (both for groups and individuals).
Rawalpindi- How to reach, Section I
Section I - Travel to Pakistan
By Air -
More than 25 airlines fly to Pakistan from over 40 countries. Most of the flights arrive at Karachi, but PIA, British Airways, Saudia and China Xinjiang Airlines fly direct to the twin cities of Rawalpindi/Islamabad. PIA, Indian Airlines, Saudia and Thai Airways fly direct to Lahore. PIA has direct flights from the main Mediterranean and European cities, as well as New York, Toronto and Nairobi. It also runs a Far East Network from Tokyo, Beijing, Jakarta, Singapore, Kuala Lumpur and Bangkok. PIA also has flights to Tashkent and Almaty from Islamabad/Rawalpindi and Lahore.
By Land -
1: From China
The Khunjerab Pass is open from 1st May to 31st October for groups and to 15th November for individual tourists. Customs, Immigration post shall remain open daily from 08:30 to 11:00 for outgoing travelers and upto 16:00 (Pakistan Standard Time) for incoming tourists. Travel time from Sost to Taxkurgan (China) is 5 hours (220 kms). The Chinese border post, Taxkurgan is open 12:00 noon to 14:00 (Beijing Time) for outgoing tourists and upto 19:00 for incoming travelers.
2: From India
Wagah is the only land border open between Pakistan and India (Lahore-Amritsar route). The Wagah border post is open daily for foreigners; Summer (16 April to 15 October) 08:30 to 14:30 hrs and Winter (16 October to 15 April). Minibus No.12 leaves from outside Lahore Railway Station for Wagah every 15 minutes, costs approx US$ 0.20 per person. Taxi shall charge around US$ 8 for this half an hour journey.
3: From Iran
Pak-Iran border crossing is only possible through Taftan-Zahidan, from 09:00 hrs to 17:00 hrs with break from 13:00 hrs to 14:00 hrs. Several buses and coaches daily leave from Taftan to Quetta (634 km - 16 - 18 hours). Approximate fare is around US$ 8 per person on coach and US$ 7 per person on bus. There is a weekly express train from Zahidan to Quetta (via Taftan - 27 hours). Economy Class fare with berth is approximately around US$ 10 and First Class Sleeper is US$ 13 per person. Another Passenger (slower) train leaves Taftan every Thursday for Quetta.
4: Lahore - Delhi Bus Service
Pakistan Tourism Development Corporation (PTDC) and Delhi Transport Corporation (DTC) have started a direct luxury bus service between Lahore and Delhi w.e.f. 16th March 1999. The 43-seater, air-conditioned bus leave simultaneously from Faletti's Hotel, Egerton Road, Lahore and Dr. Ambedkar Terminal, Delhi Gate, New Delhi on every Tuesday, Wednesday, Friday and Saturday at 06:00 hours. One-way fare is equivalent to US$ 19 per person.
5: Lahore - Delhi Train Service
The Lahore-Delhi (Samjhota Express) train leaves Lahore at 11:00 hrs on Mondays and Thursdays. Check-in time at Lahore Railway Station is 08:00 hrs. First Class fare to Delhi is approx. US$ 10, Economy Class is US$ 3, whereas Lahore - Amritsar First Class is US$2 and Economy Class is US$1 per person.
6: By Sea (1998 Census)
No passenger boats or ships for the general public sails to or from Pakistan at present. A few pilgrim ships/boats do ply between Pakistan and the Gulf States.
Where to eat in Rawalpindi
Wide variety of food is served in Rawalpindi/Islamabad. These include Oriental, Chinese, Pakistani, Indian, Western, Arabic dishes, desserts and fast food items.
Hotels & Restaurant : Lunch, High tea, Coffee, Dinner.
01: Pearl Continental Hotel - (Rawalpindi) 5*
Pearl Continental Hotel
The Mall
Rawalpindi, Pakistan
Phone: 92-51-566011
02: Holiday Inn Hotel - (Islamabad) 5*
Holiday Inn Islamabad
G-6 Civic Center
Islamabad, 44000 Pakistan
Phone: 51-827311
03: Marriott Hotel - (Islamabad) 5*
Marriott Hotel Islamabad
Aga Khan rd, Shalimar 5
Islamabad, Pakistan
Phone: 111-22-33-44
04: Best western Hotel - (Islamabad) 5*
Best Western Hotel Islamabad
6 Islamabad Club Rd
Islamabad, Pakistan
Phone: 51-277460
05: Serena Islamabad - (Islamabad) 4*
Islamabad Serena Hotel
Khayaban E Suhrawardy
Islamabad 44000, Pakistan
Phone: 92-51-2874000
06: Shalimar Hotel - (Rawalpindi) 4*
Off GT Road, The Mal,. Rawalpindi.
Phone: 92-512874000
07: Akbar International - (Rawalpindi) 3*
Liaqat Road, Opp: Liaquat Bagh, Rawalpindi.
Phone: 92-51-532001-04
08: Lasania Restaurant city - (Rawalpindi)
146/B, Murree Road Saddar, Rawalpindi.
Phone: 051-5583691, 051-5584929
09: La Rosh Hotel - (Rawalpindi)
Committee Chowk, Rawalpindi.
10: Kentucky Restaurant - (Rawalpindi)
3-B,New Market, Kashmir Road, Rawalpindi.
Phone: 5566023, 5515024
Fast Food : Burgers, Soft Drinks, French fries, Ice Cream, Pizza
Best places for fast food include,
01: KFC - International - (Rawalpindi)
Adamjee Road, Saddar, Murree Road, Rawalpindi.
02: SUBWAY - International - (Rawalpindi)
Near KFC, Saddar, Murree Road. Rawalpindi.
03: Texas steak house - (Rawalpindi)
First floor, KFC building. Saddar Rawalpindi.
04: Burger Express - (Rawalpindi)
Kashmir road, Saddar, Rawalpindi.
Adjacent to Unique Bakers.
05: Rahat Bakers - (Rawalpindi)
Haider Road. Saddar. Rawalpindi
06: Jahangir's BALTI & BAR-B-Q - (Rawalpindi)
132,Kashmir Road, Saddar, Cantt. Rawalpindi.
Phone: 5568579, 5563352
07: Yummy 36 - (Rawalpindi)
Ice cream Parlor.
6th Road, Murree road. Rawalpindi.
Aladdin Fun House Building.
08: Kudos Fast foods - (Rawalpindi)
Bank Road. Saddar. Rawalpindi
Near National Bank of Pakistan
09: Red Onion - (Rawalpindi)
Gul Plaza, Murree Road, Rawalpindi.
Phone: 5564446
10: Softo - (Rawalpindi)
Ice Cream only.
Bank Road, Saddar, Rawalpindi.
Near Idris Book Bank.
11: Kim Fu - (Rawalpindi)
Chinese Foods Only.
The Mall, Opp: State Life building. Rawalpindi.
12: McDonalds - (Rawalpindi)
Fast Foods Only.
Jinnah Park, Off The Mall, Rawalpindi.
13: Chicken Hut - (Rawalpindi)
Fast Foods Only.
Crown Plaza, near Commercial Market. Rawalpindi.
14: Aalo Junction - (Rawalpindi)
Potato special Fast Foods Only.
Crown Plaza, near Commercial Market. Rawalpindi.
April 16, 2008
Cinepax Jinnah Park Rawalpindi, Pakistan - 2005
The first cineplex cinema in Rawalpindi opens the doors for cine gores on Eid-ul-Fittar Day on October 14, 2007. Cinemex opened this twelve-screen multiplex in 2005, in an extension to an existing mall. The complex seats approximately 1,400 people, and includes a variety of food service innovations which have become the hallmark of Cinemex's recent exhibition venues. This project is one of over 45 projects designed by Mesbur+Smith Architects for Cinemex in the past 13 years. Mohabtan sachian and Khuda kay liye are first released films at this cinema
Report: Muslim Boycott Hurts Denmark's Economy
Report: Muslim Boycott Hurts Denmark's Economy(IsraelNN.com)
The Danish Arla Foods Company announced recently that it had suffered serious losses due to a Muslim consumer boycott. If the boycott continues for the entire year, the company could lose $372 million, managers said.
Danish Foreign Minister Per Stig Moller recently spoke to the local daily Boerson and warned that a third printing of the caricatures could cause Denmark serious long-term financial losses.
Source:
http://www.israelnationalnews.com/News/Flash.aspx/144969
April 15, 2008
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March 18, 2008
City Dialing Code
| City Name | Dialing Code |
| Abbottabad | 992 |
| Abdul Hakim | 6901 |
| Adda Chhabell | 471 |
| Agra | 756 |
| Ahmad Nagar | 4340 |
| Ahmad Pur Sial | 475 |
| Ahmed Pur East | 698 |
| Ajnian Wala | 4931 |
| Akbarpur | 0521-091 |
| Akhtarabad | 442 |
| Alipur | 6511 |
| Alipur Chatta | 4346 |
| Alizai | 925 |
| Amin Pur | 41 |
| Arifwala | 446 |
| Attock | 57 |
| Awaran | 856 |
| Badah | 7448 |
| Badin | 297 |
| Badomalhi | 4368 |
| Bagh | 599 |
| Baghwal | 573 |
| Bahawalnagar | 63 |
| Bahawalpur | 62 |
| Bahrain | 0536-0937 |
| Bakhshu | 442 |
| Bala Kot | 985 |
| Balkasar | 573 |
| Banda Dawood Shah | 0522-922 |
| Bandhi | 241 |
| Bannu | 928 |
| Bara | 0521-091 |
| Bari Kot | 0536-0936 |
| Barian | 593 |
| Basal | 597 |
| Basirpur | 4449 |
| Batgram | 0598-0986 |
| Batkhela | 05323-0932 |
| Bela | 8288 |
| Bewal | 5798 |
| Bhagowal | 573 |
| Bhagtanwala | 451 |
| Bhai Pheru | 4943 |
| Bhakkar | 453 |
| Bhalot | 596 |
| Bhalwal | 455 |
| Bhan Saeedabad | 2298 |
| Bhaun | 573 |
| Bhawana | 4619 |
| Bhera | 4521 |
| Bheriya Road | 7095 |
| Bhirya City | 2425 |
| Bhit Shah | 2289 |
| Billi Tong | 0522-0922 |
| Birote | 593 |
| Bonga Saleh | 444 |
| Bongh Sharif | 702 |
| Bucheki | 496 |
| Buffa | 5923 |
| Buleda | 8618 |
| Bungla Dero | 74119 |
| Burewala | 447 |
| Bajaur Agency | 942 |
| Bolan | 832 |
| Buner | 939 |
| Chagharmatti | 0521-091 |
| Chak Jhumra | 4610 |
| Chakdara | 0536-0936 |
| Chakwal | 543 |
| Chaman | 826 |
| Changa Manga | 4951 |
| Charsadda | 0525-0921 |
| Chawinda | 4364 |
| Chichawatni | 445 |
| Chichoki Mallian | 49316 |
| Chiniot | 466 |
| Chistian | 695 |
| Chitral | 943 |
| Choa Lahore | 053723-09383 |
| Choa Saiden Shah | 573 |
| Choti | 6418 |
| Chowk Azam | 6519 |
| Chowk Munda | 677 |
| Chowk Pandori | 571 |
| Chunian | 4946 |
| Company Bagh | 593 |
| Chagai | 825 |
| Dadu | 25 |
| Daggar | 939 |
| Dal Bandin | 8125 |
| Damba | 2073 |
| Daraban | 966 |
| Darra Adam Khail | 05241-0927 |
| Darsamand | 5242 |
| Darya Khan | 4654 |
| Daska | 4341 |
| Daulat Nagar | 4331 |
| Daulatpur Saffan | 2424 |
| Daur | 24181 |
| Depalpur | 4441 |
| Dera Allahyar(Nasirabad) | 8289 |
| Dera Bugti | 835 |
| Dera Ghazi Khan | 64 |
| Dera Ismael Khan | 966 |
| Dera Murad Jamali | 7050 |
| Dewal Sharif | 593 |
| Dhabeji | 206 |
| Dhadar | 8285 |
| Dharanwala | 632 |
| Dharki | 7059 |
| Dhudial | 573 |
| Digikot | 4692 |
| Digree | 23221 |
| Dina | 541 |
| Dinga | 43317 |
| Diplo | 2341 |
| Dir, Lower | 945 |
| Dobian | 05372-0938 |
| Dokri | 7443 |
| Domail | 0528-0923 |
| Drosh | 05333-09333 |
| Dukki | 8291 |
| Dunyapur | 6518 |
| Dir, Upper | 944 |
| Ellahabad | 4449 |
| Eminabad | 431 |
| Faisalabad | 41 |
| Faqir Wali | 691 |
| Farooqabad | 4945 |
| Fateh Jang | 5775 |
| Fateh Pur | 6903 |
| Fazil Pur | 6418 |
| Feroz Wattan | 496 |
| Ferozwala | 431 |
| Fort Abbas | 4445 |
| Fort Munro | 6418 |
| Gularchi | 227 |
| Gulshan-e-Hadeed | 201 |
| Gadani | 278 |
| Gadap | 2075 |
| Gadoon Amazai | 05372-0932 |
| Gaggo Mandi | 446 |
| Gakkar | 431 |
| Galanai | 920 |
| Gambat | 7056 |
| Garhi Kapura | 0531-0931 |
| Garhi Mori | 7928 |
| Garhi Nori | 7929 |
| Garhi Yasin | 761 |
| Gawadar | 86 |
| Ghazni Khel | 052409-09699 |
| Ghotki | 723 |
| Ghour Gashti | 5799 |
| Gilgit | 572 |
| Gojra | 4651 |
| Gomal University(DIK) | 05299-09619 |
| Gujar Khan | 571 |
| Gujranwala | 55 |
| Gujrat | 53 |
| Hafizabad | 547 |
| Haiderabad Thall | 453 |
| Hala | 228 |
| Hangu | 925 |
| Haram Zai | 894 |
| Haripur | 995 |
| Harnai | 834 |
| Haroon Abad | 691 |
| Harrapa City | 441 |
| Hasan Adbal | 5772 |
| Hasil Pur | 696 |
| Hattar-HRP | 0595-0995 |
| Hattian | 597 |
| Haveli Lakhan | 4442 |
| Havelian | 5773 |
| Hawana | 4612 |
| Hazrat Sultan Bahu | 475 |
| Hazro | 5779 |
| Hub | 202 |
| Hujra Shah Muqeem | 4449 |
| Hunak | 51 |
| Isakhel | 45203 |
| Islamabad | 51 |
| Jaccobabad | 772 |
| Jahangira | 5249 |
| Jahanian | 699 |
| Jalalpur Jattan | 4331 |
| Jalapur Pirwala | 628 |
| Jam Cheema | 4366 |
| Jam Nawaz Ali | 22215 |
| Jampur | 6419 |
| Jamrud | 0521-091 |
| Jand | 597 |
| Jandiala Dhabawala | 431 |
| Jatoi | 6909 |
| Jauharabad | 451 |
| Jhang | 47 |
| Jharban | 4931 |
| Jhawarian | 4523 |
| Jhelum | 544 |
| Jhuddo | 23231 |
| Johi | 771 |
| Jranwala | 468 |
| Jhal Magsi | 837 |
| Kabal | 0536-0936 |
| Kabirwala | 6512 |
| Kacha Khu | 692 |
| Kahuta | 578 |
| Kakul(AT) | 059218-09928 |
| Kala Bagh | 4529 |
| Kalar Sayedan | 571 |
| Kalaske | 431 |
| Kalat | 844 |
| Kaloor Kot | 4525 |
| Kamalia | 463 |
| Kambar Ali Khan | 0706-0743 |
| Kamoke | 435 |
| Kamra | 5979 |
| Kandh Kot | 704 |
| Kandiaro | 7093 |
| Kanian Bangla | 4652 |
| Karachi | 21 |
| Karak | 927 |
| Karampur | 70416 |
| Karor Lalieson | 671 |
| Karor Pacca | 6514 |
| Karrianwala | 4331 |
| Kashmore | 7057 |
| Kasur | 49 |
| Khairpur | 243 |
| Khairpur Nathan Shan | 7441 |
| Khairpur Tamewali | 6904 |
| Khal | 0535-0935 |
| Khalabat Town | 0595-0995 |
| Khan Garh | 661 |
| Khanewal | 65 |
| Khanpur | 707 |
| Khanqah | 49454 |
| Khanqah Dograh | 4931 |
| Khar | 5321 |
| Kharan | 847 |
| Kharian | 5771 |
| Khaur | 5776 |
| Khawaz Khela | 0536-0936 |
| Khiderwala | 4652 |
| Khipro | 226 |
| Khudian Khas | 492 |
| Khurrian Wala | 4691 |
| Khuzdar | 848 |
| Killi Karbala | 894 |
| Kohar | 5776 |
| Kohat | 922 |
| Kohat Township | 05226-09226 |
| Kohlu | 829 |
| Kot Addu | 697 |
| Kot Digi | 7926 |
| Kot GM | 23641 |
| Kot Memon | 4531 |
| Kot Najeebullah | 05958-09958 |
| Kot Qazi | 5776 |
| Kot Radha Kishan | 4944 |
| Kot Samaba | 731 |
| Kotali Loharan | 431 |
| Kotli(Azad Kashmir) | 574 |
| Kotri City | 221 |
| Kuchlak | 81 |
| Kulachi | 0529-0968 |
| Kullowal | 432 |
| Kundian | 45202 |
| Kunjah | 4345 |
| Kunri | 23651 |
| Kech | 852 |
| Khushab | 454 |
| Killa Saifullah | 823 |
| Kohistan | 998 |
| Kurram Agency | 926 |
| Lachi | 0522-0922 |
| Lahore | 42 |
| Lakki Ghulam Shah | 761 |
| Lalamusa | 4348 |
| Lalian | 4533 |
| Landi Kotal | 05248-0924 |
| Larkana | 74 |
| Latamber | 0528-0928 |
| Layyah | 606 |
| Liaqat Abad | 4522 |
| Liaqatpur | 7321 |
| Liliah Town | 4569 |
| Lodhran | 608 |
| Lohi Bhar | 51 |
| Loralie | 824 |
| Lukky Marwat | 969 |
| Lasbela | 853 |
| Machh | 835 |
| Mailsi | 6515 |
| Malhal Mughlan | 573 |
| Malikwal | 456 |
| Mamu Kanjan | 4610 |
| Mana More | 447 |
| Manawala Town | 496 |
| Mandi Bahuddin | 546 |
| Mandi Dhaban Singh | 4931 |
| Mandi Faizabad | 498 |
| Mandi Hira Singh | 4449 |
| Mandra | 571 |
| Mangowal | 4331 |
| Mankera | 453 |
| Mansehra | 997 |
| Mardan | 937 |
| Mathra | 0521-091 |
| Matiari | 2203 |
| Matli | 2238 |
| Matta | 0536-0936 |
| Mattani | 521 |
| Mehar | 745 |
| Mehrab Pur | 7092 |
| Meilsi | 6515 |
| Mianwali | 459 |
| Mianwali Bangla | 4367 |
| Miawali Qureshian | 731 |
| Minchanabad | 6319 |
| Mir Ali | 5262 |
| Miran Shah | 05247-0929 |
| Miro Khan | 7415 |
| Mirpur Khas | 233 |
| Mirpur Mathelo | 7291 |
| Mithan Kot | 65167 |
| Mithi | 2342 |
| More Emanabad | 43188 |
| More Khunda | 4947 |
| Moro | 752 |
| Mukkuana | 41 |
| Multan | 61 |
| Murid Wala | 4615 |
| Murree | 593 |
| Muslim Bagh | 8292 |
| Mustafa Abad | 4952 |
| Mustung | 843 |
| Muzaffar Garh | 66 |
| Muzaffarabad | 58 |
| Malakand | 932 |
| Musakhel | 828 |
| Nala Kajori | 521 |
| Nankana Sahib | 4941 |
| Narang Mandi | 4949 |
| Narowal | 542 |
| Nasirabad | 838 |
| Nathia Gali | 51868 |
| Naudero | 74147 |
| Naukot | 2345 |
| Naukundi | 8127 |
| Naushera Feroz | 242 |
| Naushera Khushab | 454 |
| Naushera Vikran | 4349 |
| Nawab Shah | 244 |
| Nawagai | 53214 |
| Nawan Kali | 5324 |
| Nawan Lahore | 462 |
| New Jatoi | 752 |
| New Saeedabad | 22286 |
| Nika Jang | 597 |
| Nizam Bazar | 528 |
| Noor Shah | 441 |
| Nooriabad | 22139 |
| Noorpur Thall | 452 |
| Noshki | 825 |
| Nowshera | 923 |
| Ogoki | 432 |
| Okara | 44 |
| Ormarah | 2045 |
| Pabbi | 0521-091 |
| Pad Edan | 75331 |
| Padhana | 573 |
| Pak Pattan | 457 |
| Pano Aqil | 7058 |
| Pansera | 41 |
| Panwan | 4955 |
| Parachinar | 5243 |
| Pasni | 2049 |
| Pasrur | 4342 |
| Pattoki | 4942 |
| Penyala | 0529-0961 |
| Peshawar | 91 |
| Pezo | 0529-0961 |
| Phagwari | 593 |
| Phalia | 456 |
| Pinanwal | 458 |
| Pindi Bhatian | 4931 |
| Pindi Dadan Khan | 458 |
| Pindi Gheb | 5778 |
| Pir Jo Goth | 7098 |
| Pir Mahal | 4656 |
| Pir Pai | 0521-091 |
| Piryalo | 7096 |
| Pishin | 826 |
| Pithoro | 231 |
| Pull-iii | 451 |
| Punjgoor | 8293 |
| Panjgur | 855 |
| Qabula | 4446 |
| Qalanderabad | 5921 |
| Qazi Ahmed | 24171 |
| Qila Saifullah | 82926 |
| Qila Sheikhupura | 4931 |
| Qila Suba Singh | 432 |
| Quaid Abad | 4528 |
| Quetta | 81 |
| Quetta Army Exch | 81 |
| Quetta PAF | 831 |
| Quetta Staff College | 81 |
| Rabwah | 4524 |
| Radhan | 7446 |
| Raheemabad | 7029 |
| Rahim Yar Khan | 68 |
| Rahwali | 43161 |
| Raiwind | 4951 |
| Raja Jang | 4951 |
| Rajan Pur | 604 |
| Rajana | 4614 |
| Rangoonwaisa | 5774 |
| Rani Pur | 7051 |
| Rashakai | 0531-0931 |
| Rattodero | 7054 |
| Rawalakot | 576 |
| Rawalpindi | 51 |
| Rawat | 5777 |
| Renala Khurd | 4443 |
| Risalpur | 5374 |
| Rizmak | 964 |
| Rodala Road | 468 |
| Rodu Sultan | 475 |
| Rohilla Wali | 661 |
| Rojhan | 644 |
| Rojhan Jamali | 82898 |
| Rustam | 0531-0931 |
| Sabirabad | 52444 |
| Kurram Agency | 0926-05243 |
| Sadhoki | 431 |
| Sadiqabad | 702 |
| Sagri | 571 |
| Saha Jwanani Mandi | 471 |
| Sahiwal | 40 |
| Sahiwal -SGD | 451 |
| Saidu Sharif | 0536-0936 |
| Sakardu | 575 |
| Sakha Kot | 5322 |
| Sakrund | 24151 |
| Sambarial | 432 |
| Samundri | 4652 |
| Sang Jani | 51 |
| Sanghar | 235 |
| Sangla Hill | 996 |
| Sanjwani | 8219 |
| Sarai Naurang | 5261 |
| Sargodha | 48 |
| Satiana | 4694 |
| Sehna | 456 |
| Sehwan Sharif | 2292 |
| Shabqadar | 0521-091 |
| Shadi Khan | 5774 |
| Shadiwal | 43318 |
| Shah Jawani City | 471 |
| Shah Kot | 4658 |
| Shah Pur Saddar | 4526 |
| Shahbaz Khel | 05240-0969 |
| Shahdad Kot | 0742-0708 |
| Shahdad Pur | 2232 |
| Shahpur Chakar | 245 |
| Shakar Garh | 4344 |
| Sharq Pur | 498 |
| Sheikh Manda | 8188 |
| Sher Garh | 442 |
| Sherpao | 0525-0921 |
| Shikar Pur | 726 |
| Shinkiari | 5922 |
| Shuja Abad | 6513 |
| Sialkot | 52 |
| Sibbi | 833 |
| Sidh | 4331 |
| Sihala | 51 |
| Sillaan Wali | 45201 |
| Sita Road | 7447 |
| Sobodero | 756 |
| Sodhra | 437 |
| Sohawa | 5719 |
| Sujawal | 2031 |
| Sukheki | 4931 |
| Sukkur | 71 |
| Swabi | 938 |
| South Waziristan | 965 |
| Swat | 946 |
| Taftan | 8128 |
| Takht Bai | 0531-0931 |
| Takht Nusrati | 0528-0928 |
| Talagang | 5776 |
| Talhar | 2206 |
| Tall | 5346 |
| Talwandi Musa Khan | 431 |
| Tandianwala | 4657 |
| Tando Adam | 2221 |
| Tando Allah Yar | 2231 |
| Tando Jam | 2233 |
| Tank | 963 |
| Tarlai Khan | 51 |
| Tasp | 8293 |
| Tattli Aali | 431 |
| Taunsa | 6510 |
| Taxila | 596 |
| Thana | 5328 |
| Thana Bulla Khan | 2207 |
| Tharu Shah | 7052 |
| Thatta | 298 |
| Thekri Wala | 41 |
| Thorder | 05372-0938 |
| Thul | 7094 |
| Timer Garah | 0535-0935 |
| Toba Tek Singh | 46 |
| Topi | 05372-0938 |
| Toru | 0531-0931 |
| Tulamba | 6901 |
| Turbat | 861 |
| Tharparkar | 232 |
| Ubaro | 7097 |
| Uch Sharif | 6902 |
| Umer Kot | 238 |
| Usta Muhammad | 740 |
| Uthal | 27 |
| Vehari | 67 |
| Vehoa | 65104 |
| Wadh | 878 |
| Wana | 05263-0965 |
| Wana Radha Ram | 4951 |
| War Burton | 496 |
| Warah | 7445 |
| Wari | 0535-0935 |
| Wazirabad | 437 |
| Wstarzai | 522 |
| Yar Hussain | 0531-0931 |
| Yazman | 6525 |
| Zaida | 05372-0938 |
| Zarobi | 05372-0938 |
March 4, 2008
March 23, 1940: The Lahore Resolution
FROM March 22 to March 24, 1940, the 
All India Muslim League held its annual session at Minto Park, Lahore. This session proved to be historical.
On the first day of the session, Quaid-i-Azam Muhammad Ali Jinnah narrated the events of the last few months. In an extempore speech he presented his own solution of the Muslim problem. He said that the problem of India was not of an inter-communal nature, but manifestly an international one and must be treated as such.
To him the differences between Hindus and the Muslims were so great and so sharp that their union under one central government was full of serious risks. They belonged to two separate and distinct nations and therefore the only chance open was to allow them to have separate states.
In the words of Quaid-i-Azam: "Hindus and the Muslims belong to two different religions, philosophies, social customs and literature. They neither inter-marry nor inter-dine and, indeed, they belong to two different civilizations that are based mainly on conflicting ideas and conceptions. Their concepts on life and of life are different. It is quite clear that Hindus and Muslims derive their inspiration from different sources of history. They have different epics, different heroes and different episodes. Very often the hero of one is a foe of the other, and likewise, their victories and defeats overlap. To yoke together two such nations under a single state, one as a numerical minority and the other as a majority, must lead to growing discontent and final destruction of any fabric that may be so built up for the government of such a state".
He further said, "Mussalmans are a nation according to any definition of nation. We wish our people to develop to the fullest spiritual, cultural, economic, social and political life in a way that we think best and in consonance with our own ideals and according to the genius of our people".
On the basis of the above mentioned ideas of the Qua
id, A. K. Fazl-ul-Haq, the then Chief Minister of Bengal, moved the historical resolution which has since come to be known as Lahore Resolution or Pakistan Resolution.The Resolution declared: "No constitutional plan would be workable or acceptable to the Muslims unless geographical contiguous units are demarcated into regions which should be so constituted with such territorial readjustments as may be necessary. That the areas in which the Muslims are numerically in majority as in the North-Western and Eastern zones of India should be grouped to constitute independent states in which the constituent units shall be autonomous and sovereign".
It further reads, "That adequate, effective and mandatory safeguards shall be specifically provided in the constitution for minorities in the units and in the regions for the protection of their religious, cultural, economic, political, administrative and other rights of the minorities, with their consultation. Arrangements thus should be made for the security of Muslims where they were in a minority".
The Resolution repudiated the concept of United India and recommended the creation of an independent Muslim state consisting of Punjab, N. W. F. P., Sindh and Baluchistan in the northwest, and Bengal and Assam in the northeast.
The Resolution was seconded by Maulana Zafar Ali Khan from Punjab, Sardar Aurangzeb from the N. W. F. P., Sir Abdullah Haroon from Sindh, and Qazi Esa from Baluchistan, along with many others.
The Resolution was passed on March 24. It laid down only the principles, with the details left to be worked out at a future date. It was made a part of the All India Muslim League's constitution in 1941. It was on the basis of this resolution that in 1946 the Muslim League decided to go for one state for the Muslims, instead of two.
Having passed the Pakistan Resolution, the Muslims of India changed their ultimate goal. Instead of seeking alliance with the Hindu community, they set out on a path whose destination was a separate homeland for the Muslims of India--with a great name of Pakistan.
Perspective
The background of Pakistan Resolution is that in 1937, prov
incial autonomy was introduced in the Sub-continent under the Government of India Act, 1935. The elections of 1937 provided the Congress with a majority in six provinces, where Congress governments were formed. This led to the political, social, economic and cultural suppression of the Muslims in the Congress ruled provinces.The Congress contemptuously rejected the Muslim League's offer of forming coalition ministries. The Muslims were subjected not only to physical attacks but injustice and discriminatory treatment as regards civil liberties, economic measures and employment and educational opportunities. The Congress Ministries introduced the Wardha scheme of education, the object of which was to de- Muslimise the Muslim youth and children.
According to British historian Reginald Coupland. "It was not only the Working Committee's control of the Congress Ministries that showed that a'Congress Raj' had been established. It was betrayed by the conduct and bearing of Congressmen. ..Many of them behaved as if they were a ruling caste, as if they owned the country ."
Mr. Ian Stephens, former editor of the newspaper' Statesman ' and an eyewitness to the working of the Congress Ministries, says: "The effect of this simultaneously on many Muslim minds was of a lightning flash. What had before been but guessed at now leapt forth in horridly clear outline. The Congress, a Hindi-dominated body, was bent on the eventual absorption; Westem-style majority rult?, in an undivided sub- continent, could only mean the smaller community being swallowed by the larger."
The animosity shown by the Hindus to the Muslim and their own experience of two-and-a-half year Congress rule strengthened the Muslims belief in their separate Nationality .The discriminatory attitude coupled with attempts by the Hindu dominated Congress to suppress the Muslims impelled the Muslims to finally demand a separate sovereign state for the Muslims.
However, the Muslim demand was violently opposed both by the British and the Hindus; and the Congress attitude towards the Muslims led to the hardening of the Muslims belief that only a separate homeland -Pakistan -can guarantee their freedom. This demand was put in black and white on 23rd March, 1940.
After adoption of the Pakistan Resolution, Quaid-e-Azam had a clear objective before him and he struggled hard to achieve it. In one of the meetings, he said: "We are a Nation of a hundred million and what is more, we are a Nation with our distinct culture and civilization, language and literature, art and architecture, legal laws and moral codes, customs and calendar, history and traditions, aptitudes and ambitions. In short, as Muslims we have our own distinctive outlook on life". He further said that by all cannons of international laws, we are a nation.
In 1945, Quaid-e-Azam proclaimed that only Muslim League represented the Muslims, and proved it to the hilt during 1946 polls, winning 100 per cent seats at the Centre, and 80 per cent in the provinces. Nothing could have been more conclusive to shatter the Congress claim of being a national body. If the British had read the writing on the wall in this verdict, Pakistan could have come into existence two years earlier without bloodshed.
With his charismatic personal Quaid-e-Azam turned the dr
eam of a separate homeland into reality on 14th of August 1947. Ins of severe opposition, establishment of Pakistan, in such a short span of seven year surely an extra-ordinary achievement, which has no m in history.On the eve of his departure Karachi from Delhi on August, 1947, Quaid-e-Azam a message to Hindustan, implored "The past must be buried and let us start afresh as two independent sovereign States of Hindustan and Pakistan. I wish Hindustan prosperity and peace."
Even in his post-partition statements, the Quaid-e-Azam envisaged a relationship of peaceful co-existence with India. But, the eruption of war in Kashmir in 1947 created acrimony between India and Pakistan, which became more acute with the passage of time. While Pakistan has throughout been supporting a peaceful resolution of the Kashmir dispute, the Indian obstinacy led to three wars and scores of clashes, peace initiative took him to Agra. Kashmir problem is resolved to bedeviling the relations between Even after the failure of Agra the satisfaction of the parties to both the neighbouring countries.
Pakistan's present leadership continues to subscribe to the policy of peaceful resolution of all disputes with India. Enumerating Pakistan' s foreign policy parameters on 23rd June, 2000, General Pervez Musharraf stated: The war should be avoided through a potent deterrence and diplomacy, engaging India on the issue of Kashmir for bringing permanent peace in the region without compromising on sovereignty.
President Pervez Musharraf's peace initiative took him to Agra. Even after the failure of Agra talks, he continued to persistently pursue his policy of peaceful resolution of all disputes with India. Reciprocating Pakistan President's gesture, the ex-Indian Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee, during his visit to Srinagar in April last year, extended his hand of friendship towards Pakistan. A meeting between the two leaders, on the sidelines of SAARC Summit in Islamabad early this year, led to a barrage of confidence-building measures and Secretary-level talks.
Now there is need to ensure a quick forward movement to resolve the long simmering Kashmir dispute, which has been the main irritant and the bone of contention between
India and Pakistan. All contentious issues between the two countries would be automatically settled if the Kashmir problem is resolved to the satisfaction of the parties to the dispute.
In short, the commemoration of 23rd March is an expression of the whole nation's resolute determination to preserve her independence and the Day's celebrations are a reflection of this.
March 3, 2008
Rawalpindi
Present day
The other places of interest in and around
If a person was to look for a good bargain in
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