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Pakistan known for World’s Highest Mountain Peaks

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Internationally known as home to the world’s second tallest mountain K-2 (8,611meters), Pakistan is a unique country for having five highest mountain peaks

of over 8,000 meters and 108 peaks above 7,000 meters on earth attracting trekkers, mountaineers and adventure sports lovers from across the world to explore.


A country with centuries old Ghandhara and Indus civilizations, indigenous Kalash culture, geographical, and ethnic diversity, Pakistan’s 61 percent areas are covered by mountains including five of the world’s tallest picturesque peaks including K-2 (8,611m), Nanga Parbath (8,126m), Gasherbrum-I (8,068m), Broad Peak (8,047m) and Broad Peak Middle (8016m) that was beyond the human imagination.


Known as mountains’ wonder, Pakistan’s five peaks are among the 14 peaks of above 8,000 meters height found on this planet. The country is also blessed with 108 peaks of above 7,000 meters and thousands more peaks of above 6,000 and 5000 meters height draw mountaineers and adventure sports lovers from across the globe throughout the year.


Blessed with the highest mountains ranges of Hamalya, Karakuram and Hindokash, Pakistan’s northern cities including Gilgit, Chilas, Hunza, Sakardu, Astore in Gilgit Baltistan, Chitral, Dir, Kohistan, Swat, Shangla, Malakand, Buner, Torghar, Abbottabad, Manshera, Suleman Range in DI Khan, merged areas in KP, Murree in northern Punjab and Azad Kashmir are the most suitable for mountains tourism.


In addition to archeological, religious and ecotourism attractions, Khyber Pakthunkhwa has bestowed with over 1,130 mountains peaks including picturesque Tirich Mir (7,708m), the tallest mountain peak in Hindukash range and the world highest outside Himalaya and Karakuram ranges and Boni Zom peak (6,542m) in Chitral, Flask Sair (5,957m) at Ushu Valley, Mankiyal peak (5,650m) in Swat, Malaka Parbath peak (5,290m) at Kaghan Valley Manshera, Miranjani peak (2,992m), Mukeshpur peak (9,200m) in Abbottabad, Koh-e-Suleman peak (3,487m) at DI Khan, and Elum peak (2800m) at Swat-Buner where substantial increase in  number of mountaineers had been witnessed since 2015 courtesy to the present government’s pro-tourism policies and massive investment in tourism sector.


“Swat is my favorite hilly tourist destination due to its seven unique features including tallest snow-clad mountains peaks of Falak Sair, Elum and Mankiyal, 150 kilometers long fresh water of River Swat originating from Gabral mountain range, over 50 high altitude lakes including the famous Mahudhand, Ghandhara sites, Deodar and pine forest, which are second to none in any other districts of Pakistan,” said Manzoorul Haq, former Ambassador of Pakistan while talking to APP.


Appreciating Falik Sair and Elum mountains beauty, he said, “I had travelled to so many countries but could not find mountainous beauty of Swat anywhere that take tourists to lap of serene”, adding, skiing and skating at Malam Jabba, trout fish amid moderate to heavy snowfalls and Swat Motorway are others features making Swat a tourism capital of Pakistan.


The entire Malakand division has been opened for tourism due to Swat Motorway where 1.5 million tourists and adventure sports lovers had visited Swat, 1,20,000 in Kurmat Dir Upper and  500,000 Chitral besides one million to Galiyat and 2,20,000 to Kaghan, Naran during vacations of Eidul Azha last year.


The enhanced roads infrastructure and tourism activities had generated wealth in large scale in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa with a record Rs 66 billion businesses and Rs 26 billion earned by rural population only from tourism during the Eid vacations.


To reduce tourists load on established hilly stations, the KP Tourism Department and World Bank had signed an MoU for developing tourism integrated zones (ITZs) under the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Integrated Tourism Development Project (KITE).


Tauseef Khalid, Project Director KITE told the news agency that feasibility studies for development of four ITZs at Mankial Swat 754 kanal, Thandiani Abbottabad 640 kanal, Ganol Manshera 480 kanal and Madaklasht Lower Chitral 540 kanal was on advanced stage and work on these new hilly stations would start soon.

“World Bank would provide USD 70 million for ITZs, infrastructure development including widening and rehabilitation of roads and institutional uplift through sustainable tourism development besides protection of heritage sites,” he said, adding, the two roads to ITZs Mankiyal and Thandyani would also be constructed. “These ITZs would be developed by 2025 that would turn Pakistan an international centre for tourists.”

Sajjad Hameed, General Manager, KP Culture and Tourism Authority said 44 MoUs worth USD 8 billion signed between different departments of KP government and international firms during Dubai Expo 2022 where a Malaysian firm conducting feasibility studies on ITZs’ have given detailed presentations to investors.

“Dubai Expo remained highly successful for Pakistan. Foreign investors took keen interest to invest in KP tourism, ITZs and water Sports Theme Park at Hund Swabi district at Duabi Expo,” he said adding, a theme park would be constructed on 400 kanal to promote water sports.  He said a high-level committee under the chairmanship of Additional Chief Secretary KP has been formed for overseeing progress on these MoUs.

Muhammad Ali Syed, General Manager, KPCTA said the proposed 14 kilometers long cable car project to connect Kumrat valley Dir Upper and Madaklasht Chitral Lower would be completed with an estimated cost of Rs 32 billion that on completion would attract over 10 million tourists annually to Malakand division.

Under Waterfall Project, he said waterfalls of Sajkot, Noori, Chajjian Haripur, Jarogo Swat, Lanchar Dir, Umbrella Abbottabad would be developed and new camping pods at Larum Top and Shahin Bin Shahi Lower Dir, Kumrat Dir Upper, Broghal and Sorlaspur at Chitral Upper, Shangla, Samana Haripur, Sulatharn Swat and Kalam would be setup.

Shandor, Broghal and Gabin Jabba festival were planed while Kaghalasht snow festival has recently attracted tourists at Upper Dir in droves. Six new tourism development authorities for Kalam, Kumrat, Galiyat, Kaghan, Kalash and Peshawar were set up.

Ishtaiq Khan, Project Director C&TA for Merged Tribal Districts said that feasibility study of three mega projects including infrastructure development worth Rs three billion, construction of jeepable tracks costing Rs1.5 billion and tourism events in merged areas worth Rs 450 million has been started under Accelerated Implementation Program.

In the first phase, tourism spots would be developed in accessible areas while in the second phase these projects would be expanded to remote and far flung areas besides 10 camping pods would be established in tribal districts.

Abu Zafar Sadiq, Prominent mountaineer and President Alpine Club of Pakistan said Naltar Skardu, Kalam, Trich Mir, Murree and Malam Jabba were the most suitable destination for mountaineering and skiing sports if developed could attract international mountaineers throughout the year with positive impact on national economy.

He said Pakistan’s had produced great mountaineers like Ali Sadpara, Nazir Sabir, Ashraf Aman and Samina Khyal Baig who earned name for the country and Government’s patronage to this sector would help grow sustainable mountain tourism in the country.

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The Chiltan Ibex: A Rare Treasure of Balochistan

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The Chiltan ibex (Capra aegagrus chiltanensis), a subspecies of the wild goat, is one of the most unique and endangered animals native to Pakistan. Found exclusively in the rocky highlands of the Chiltan range within the Hazarganji-Chiltan National Park in Balochistan, this elusive animal represents the region’s rich biodiversity and ecological heritage.

Physical Characteristics

The Chiltan ibex is a strikingly beautiful species, with a robust, muscular build perfectly suited for navigating steep and rocky terrains. Males are particularly distinctive, boasting impressive curved horns that can grow up to 30 inches (76 cm) in length. Their coat is light brown, with a darker stripe running along their back and legs, providing excellent camouflage in their arid mountainous habitat.

Females are smaller in size with shorter, more slender horns, and their coloration is less pronounced, blending seamlessly into their surroundings. This camouflage helps protect them and their offspring from predators such as wolves and large birds of prey.


Habitat and Range

The Chiltan ibex inhabits the rugged, semi-arid regions of the Chiltan range, located within the Hazarganji-Chiltan National Park, southwest of Quetta. These high-altitude areas, ranging from 1,500 to 3,200 meters above sea level, are characterized by rocky cliffs, sparse vegetation, and extreme weather conditions.

The ibex is well-adapted to this challenging environment, where it feeds on grasses, shrubs, and the leaves of juniper trees. Its ability to climb steep slopes and jump across narrow ledges gives it a unique advantage in escaping predators and surviving in such inhospitable terrain.


Behavior and Social Structure

Chiltan ibexes are diurnal, meaning they are active during the day. They are typically found in small groups, with herds consisting of females and their young. Males are more solitary, joining herds only during the breeding season, which occurs in the late autumn and winter months.

During this time, males engage in dramatic displays of strength to compete for mating rights, including horn clashing and dominance rituals. After a gestation period of around six months, females give birth to one or two kids in spring, when food availability is higher.


Conservation Status

The Chiltan ibex is classified as endangered due to its restricted range, habitat loss, and poaching. Habitat degradation caused by overgrazing, deforestation, and human encroachment poses significant threats to its survival.

Historically, the ibex faced heavy hunting pressure for its horns, considered a symbol of prestige, and for its meat. Although hunting is now banned in the national park, illegal poaching remains a concern.


Conservation Efforts

To protect the Chiltan ibex and its fragile ecosystem, the Hazarganji-Chiltan National Park was established in 1980. Spanning over 32,500 acres, the park provides a safe haven for the ibex and other wildlife, such as wolves, foxes, and birds of prey.

Conservation efforts include:

  1. Anti-Poaching Measures: Increased patrolling and strict enforcement of hunting bans have helped reduce poaching incidents.
  2. Habitat Restoration: Programs to control overgrazing and reforest juniper woodlands are underway to restore the ibex’s natural habitat.
  3. Public Awareness Campaigns: Local communities are being educated about the importance of biodiversity and the role of the Chiltan ibex in maintaining ecological balance.
  4. Eco-Tourism Initiatives: Promoting responsible tourism generates revenue for conservation projects and raises awareness about the ibex’s plight.

Ecological Importance

The Chiltan ibex plays a vital role in its ecosystem as both a grazer and prey species. By feeding on shrubs and grasses, it helps maintain vegetation balance, preventing overgrowth and contributing to soil health. At the same time, it serves as a food source for predators, sustaining the natural food chain.

Protecting the ibex is not just about saving a single species—it’s about preserving an entire ecosystem that supports numerous forms of life, from tiny insects to apex predators.


Cultural Significance

For the people of Balochistan, the Chiltan ibex is more than just a wild animal; it is a symbol of the region’s natural beauty and resilience. Local folklore often intertwines with the ibex, celebrating its agility and strength. The species also draws international attention, making it a flagship for wildlife conservation in Pakistan.


The Future of the Chiltan Ibex

While conservation efforts have shown promise, the Chiltan ibex remains vulnerable. Protecting this rare species requires continued collaboration between government agencies, conservation organizations, and local communities.

By safeguarding the Chiltan ibex, we not only preserve a unique animal but also protect the fragile ecosystem of Balochistan, ensuring that future generations can marvel at the beauty and resilience of this incredible species.


The Chiltan ibex is a testament to nature’s ability to adapt and survive in the harshest of environments. As efforts to protect it continue, this majestic animal stands as a beacon of hope for wildlife conservation in Pakistan.

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Aik Qaum: The Fusion of Integrity and Patriotism

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We keep Integrity closest to our Heart and Patriotism on top of our mind.

Integrity and patriotism are not separate entities; they are intertwined in the soul of Pakistan. The people understand that to be a patriot is to uphold the principles of integrity. Honesty and love for one’s country are two sides of the same coin. Together, these values form the essence of “Aik Qaum.”

The fusion of integrity and patriotism is evident in the everyday lives of Pakistanis. It’s in the farmer toiling the fields, the teacher educating the youth, and the soldier guarding the borders. It’s in the child who dreams of a better Pakistan and the elderly who have seen the nation grow. “Aik Qaum” is the realization that integrity and patriotism are the heart and mind of Pakistan, beating in unison to guide the nation forward.

As we celebrate the spirit of “Aik Qaum,” we honor the values that make Pakistan a unique and resilient nation. Integrity and patriotism serve as our guiding stars, leading us towards a brighter and more prosperous future. In the heart of every Pakistani and at the forefront of their minds, “Aik Qaum” stands as a testament to the strength of a united nation, bound by the principles of integrity and the unyielding love for their homeland.

In Pakistan, “Aik Qaum” is not just a motto; it’s a way of life that embodies the enduring spirit of a proud and united nation.

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Real-Life “TOP GUN” M.M. ALAM

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Muhammad Mahmood Alam, often referred to as M.M. Alam, was a legendary Pakistani fighter pilot who gained fame during the 1965 Pak-Indo War. He is celebrated for his exceptional skills and courage in combat, particularly for downing five Indian Hawker Hunter fighter aircraft in a single dogfight in less than a minute. This remarkable achievement earned him the nickname “Little Dragon” and solidified his reputation as one of Pakistan’s most celebrated fighter pilots.

Here, MM Alam made an unforgettable history by knocking down nine Indian Fighter Jets ‘Hawker Hunters’ in air-to-air combat despite Hawker Hunter superiority over F-86. He shot down as he set an unbeaten world record by downing five Indian aircraft in thirty seconds.

M.M. Alam’s extraordinary feat of shooting down five enemy aircraft in such a short span of time is still regarded as one of the most significant accomplishments in aerial combat history. He was an inspiration to generations of Pakistani pilots and remains a symbol of bravery and skill in the Pakistan Air Force’s history.

While the term “Top Gun” is often associated with elite fighter pilots, it’s essential to note that M.M. Alam achieved legendary status not only within Pakistan but also on the international stage due to his exceptional combat performance. His legacy as a real-life “Top Gun” endures in the annals of aviation history

M.M. Alam’s Aircraft: The F-86 Sabre and the Indian Hawker Hunter

M.M. Alam’s Aircraft: The F-86 Sabre

1. Overview:

  • Type: Fighter aircraft
  • Manufacturer: North American Aviation
  • Role: Air superiority fighter and ground attack
  • First Flight: October 1, 1947
  • Introduced: 1949
  • Primary User: United States Air Force (USAF), also used by Pakistan Air Force (PAF) and various other air forces globally

2. Design and Features:

  • The F-86 Sabre was a transonic jet fighter aircraft that became one of the most prominent American fighter planes during the Korean War and throughout the early Cold War period.
  • Engine: Powered by a General Electric J47 turbojet engine, capable of producing about 5,200 lbf of thrust.
  • Speed: The Sabre could reach a top speed of approximately 687 mph (Mach 0.9), making it one of the fastest jet fighters of its time.
  • Armament: The aircraft was equipped with six .50 caliber M3 Browning machine guns mounted in the nose. It could also carry bombs and rockets for ground attack missions.
  • Maneuverability: The Sabre’s swept-wing design contributed to its excellent maneuverability at high speeds, which was crucial during dogfights.
  • Combat Role: The F-86 Sabre was primarily designed for air-to-air combat but was versatile enough to perform ground-attack missions. Its agility and speed made it a formidable adversary in dogfights, particularly against Soviet-built MiG-15s during the Korean War.

3. M.M. Alam and the F-86 Sabre:

  • During the 1965 Indo-Pak war, M.M. Alam flew the F-86 Sabre and achieved extraordinary success in aerial combat.
  • Alam’s mastery of the Sabre was evident in his ability to outmaneuver and outshoot the Indian Air Force’s (IAF) more modern aircraft, particularly the Hawker Hunter.
  • His most famous achievement came on September 7, 1965, when he shot down five IAF Hawker Hunters in less than a minute using the F-86 Sabre, setting a world record for the fastest air-to-air kills.

Indian Aircraft: The Hawker Hunter

1. Overview:

  • Type: Fighter aircraft
  • Manufacturer: Hawker Aircraft
  • Role: Fighter-bomber, ground attack, and interceptor
  • First Flight: July 20, 1951
  • Introduced: 1954
  • Primary User: Royal Air Force (RAF), Indian Air Force (IAF), and various other air forces globally

2. Design and Features:

  • The Hawker Hunter was a transonic British jet fighter that served as the primary front-line fighter for the Royal Air Force and was extensively used by the Indian Air Force during the 1965 Indo-Pak war.
  • Engine: Powered by a Rolls-Royce Avon turbojet engine, producing between 7,500 lbf and 10,150 lbf of thrust depending on the variant.
  • Speed: The Hunter could reach a top speed of approximately 715 mph (Mach 0.94).
  • Armament: The Hunter was equipped with four 30mm ADEN cannons and could carry a variety of bombs, rockets, and missiles for air-to-ground and air-to-air combat.
  • Maneuverability: The Hunter was known for its smooth handling, robust design, and reliability. Its performance made it a popular aircraft among pilots.
  • Combat Role: The Hawker Hunter served as both an interceptor and a ground-attack aircraft. Its versatile design allowed it to be used in multiple roles, from air superiority missions to close air support.

3. Indian Air Force and the Hawker Hunter:

  • The Hawker Hunter was one of the primary aircraft used by the Indian Air Force during the 1965 Indo-Pak war. It was considered a superior aircraft to many of the older jet fighters in service at the time.
  • Despite the Hunter’s technological advantages, M.M. Alam’s exceptional flying skills allowed him to defeat these aircraft decisively during dogfights, most notably in the skies over Sargodha.
  • The Hunter was involved in several key air battles during the conflict, and its pilots were often engaged by PAF’s F-86 Sabres, including those flown by M.M. Alam.

Comparative Analysis

**1. Technological Comparison:

  • F-86 Sabre: Despite being older and less powerful compared to the Hawker Hunter, the F-86 Sabre was highly maneuverable and had a combat-proven track record. It was an agile and reliable aircraft, particularly effective in dogfights.
  • Hawker Hunter: The Hunter was a more modern aircraft with better speed, armament, and avionics. It had a higher top speed and could carry a more diverse payload, making it more versatile in various combat roles.

2. Tactical Superiority:

  • M.M. Alam’s Tactical Genius: The technological edge of the Hawker Hunter was effectively neutralized by M.M. Alam’s superior tactics, quick decision-making, and precise shooting. His deep understanding of the F-86 Sabre’s capabilities allowed him to exploit its strengths and outmaneuver the Hunters.
  • Dogfight Success: Alam’s ability to down five Hawker Hunters in under a minute was not just a demonstration of his flying skills but also a reflection of his deep tactical acumen. He capitalized on the Sabre’s strengths, such as its rapid acceleration and tighter turning radius, to dominate the aerial battle.

3. Historical Impact:

  • Legacy of the F-86 Sabre: The success of the F-86 Sabre in the hands of pilots like M.M. Alam has become a celebrated chapter in military aviation history. The aircraft, despite its age, proved that skill and strategy could triumph over technological superiority.
  • Role of the Hawker Hunter: While the Hawker Hunter was a formidable aircraft, its performance in the 1965 war, particularly against M.M. Alam, highlighted the importance of pilot expertise and tactical proficiency in determining the outcome of air engagements.

Conclusion

The aerial battles between the F-86 Sabre and the Hawker Hunter during the 1965 Indo-Pak war are a testament to the enduring truth that while technology plays a critical role in modern warfare, it is the skill, strategy, and courage of the pilot that ultimately determine victory. M.M. Alam’s legendary feats in the F-86 Sabre against the Indian Hawker Hunters remain one of the most remarkable stories in the history of aerial combat, and they continue to inspire future generations of fighter pilots around the world.

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