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Global warming deprives Koh-i-Sufaid of its peculiarity of remaining snow clad throughout year

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PESHAWAR, (APP)::Koh-i-Sufaid, a mountain range straddling between Pakistan and Afghanistan at bordering areas of Kurram district of erstwhile tribal area, has lost its peculiarity of remaining snow clad throughout the year mainly due to global warming caused by climate change.

An offshoot of Hindu Kush range and spreading over an area of around 100 miles (160 kilometers), Koh-i-Sufaid forms a natural border between Pakistan and Afghanistan.

Its peaks remain covered with snow throughout the year and in winter the whole hilly terrain gives a look of a giant feature wearing white tunic from tip to toe.

The magnificence of Koh-i-Sufaid could be gauged from the fact that a large mural of the mountain is displayed at the main hall of the Governor House Khyber Pakhtunkwa for the appraisal of visitors about rich landscape of the tribal region of Pakistan.

The mountain is also called in local Pashto language as `Spin Ghar’ (white mountain) and according to elders of Kurram district the folklore behind naming of this mountain is its white color due to snow draped peaks.

A local poet while reflecting changes in appearance of Koh-i-Sufaid due to reduction in snow wrote a poem an ode of which reads as `Zamana badal Giya Hai, Koh-i-Sufaid nai be rang badal dia hai’ (Time has been changed and testimony to this fact is that Koh-i-Sufaid has also changed its colours).

The mountainous range has great emotional attachment with dwellers of Kurram Agency who proudly make its comparison with Nile river of Egypt.

“As river Nile is to Egyptians, Koh-i-Sufaid is to the denizens of Kurram valley,” remarked Zulfiqar Ali, a Peshawar based journalist who belongs to Parachinar, capital of Kurram.

The highest peak of the Koh-i-Sufaid mountain range is Mount Sikaram Sar with an elevation of 4,761 meters (15,620 feet) while other peaks include Agam Sar (14,300 feet) and Badina Sar (13,500 feet).

A crossing near Sikaram Sar is called Piewar-Kotal or Gawi Pass which connects Parachinar city with Aryob valley of Paktia province of Afghanistan.

The climate of Kurram remains pleasant most of the summer and in winter minimum temperature is usually below freezing point, occasionally mercury drops below -10 degree Celsius.

“The mountainous region in our Parachinar city remained snow covered throughout the year, but now for the last several years the hills turn black from white in summer season thus reflecting changes in weather,” observed Azmat Ali Zai, a local journalist of Parachinar.

Azmat, 42 years old, vividly remembers heavy snow fall in Parachinar city during winter season bringing life to a standstill and forcing people to remain indoor. The snow on mountains was enormous, he recalled.

People used to arrange food stocks in winter at their homes even in Central Kurram valley owing to shortage of edibles in markets due to roads blockade because of heavy snow.

Being a major source of water supply, the lives of farming community of Kurram district revolved around Koh-i-Sufaid and decisions about selection of crops to be sowed were taken on basis of observation of quantum of snow, he informed.

Due to sudden reduction in water supply in parts of Kurram tribal district induced by climatic changes, quarrel among farmers on dispute over water distribution for fields irrigation also started cropping up.

Haji Ejaz, a farmer by profession and dweller of Sadra village in Parachinar, hankered for days when he used to earn a handsome earning by utilizing all of his four acres of agricultural land in rice farming.

“The normal yield from half an acre of land was around 20 to 25 mounds which were sold in market at a price of around Rs. 2500 per mound,” Haji Ejaz told APP.

Due to high demand of Kurram rice in markets of Pakistan and adjacent Afghanistan, the commodity was received by grain merchants with both hands on cash payment basis, recalled Haji Ejaz.

However, for the last few years after facing water scarcity in the area, Haji Ejaz is forced to reduce rice farming from full to half of his land and utilizing remaining area on cultivation of less water intensive crops including moong (a kind of pulse) and soybean.

Both the crops are less profit generating in comparison with rice thus reducing the monthly income of Haji Ejaz.

The yield of rice crop over remaining half acres of land is also reduced from normal 25 mounds to 15 mounds, further negatively impacting the income of Haji Ejaz and other farmers in Kurram district of FATA having a population of 619553.

About reasons behind dwindling water supply in the area, Ejaz simply said reduced snow on Koh-e-Sufaid, the lifeline of agriculture and economy of Kurram Agency.

Majority of farmers in Kurram prefer rice farming because of its increasing demand and good price in market, Zulfiqar added.

He said Kurram rice, locally called as `Kurram Rujje’ or `Kurmawalay Wrazey’ was a very popular dish in the region and was also liked by people of other areas.

The coarse rice of Parachinar have a unique taste which locals believe is because of mineral contents in glacial water of Koh-i-Sufaid.

“Reason behind reduction in snow on Koh-e-Sufaid is global warming causing glacial melting,” comments Mushtaq Ahmad, Director Meteorological Department Khyber Pakhtunkhwa.

Talking to APP, Mushtaq said changes in weather timings and global warming had reduced ice compaction as a result of which snow was melting early and mountain started changing colors.

Earlier in 90’s, snow fall started in October and continued till April end. Due to heavy snowfall, compaction of ice was strong and the mountain’s peaks remained covered even in the hot months of summer season, Mushtaq added.

However, now for the last more than one decade the temperature is changing and the month of October also remain tropical.

“The snowfall period is reduced from seven months (October to April) to three months (December to late February) as a result of which the ice melts,” Mushtaq explains.

He said heavy snow provided maximum water to the region and now a number of nullahs and springs had been dried up due to shortage of water.

Reduction in snow on Koh-e-Sufaid was not only affecting the crops but also rich flora and fauna of the region, Mushtaq said adding, “the dwellers of Kurram also grow different fruits in orchids which are also being affected due to irregular weather pattern including rains and strong storms, Mushtaq told APP.

If water availability continued to dwindle, it would have very negative impact on economy and agriculture of Kurram valley where majority of locals were associated with farming and due to their preference on rice farming were highly dependent on proper supply of water, he warned.

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53 Years Since the Fall of Dhaka: A Dark Chapter in Pakistan’s History

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Today marks 53 years since the tragic fall of Dhaka on December 16, 1971 — a day etched in history as a time of great sorrow when East Pakistan separated to become Bangladesh. This somber event is remembered as one of the most significant and painful moments in Pakistan’s journey, a day of reflection on the consequences of division and lost unity.

The events of December 16, 1971, were not merely the outcome of the Pakistan-India war but a culmination of years of political discontent, mismanagement, and external conspiracies. Adversaries capitalized on Pakistan’s internal challenges, driving a wedge between East and West Pakistan, ultimately resulting in the disintegration of the nation.

Underlying Causes of Division

The separation of East Pakistan was rooted in a complex web of political and social inequalities, compounded by the lack of foresight and an unwillingness to compromise among key leaders. The rigid struggle for power further deepened the cracks between the two wings of Pakistan, laying the groundwork for a tragic separation.

The 1970 general elections revealed deep political divisions when Sheikh Mujibur Rahman’s Awami League secured a sweeping majority. However, the transfer of power to the Awami League, which held democratic legitimacy, was stalled. This deadlock fueled resentment in East Pakistan, providing India with the perfect opportunity to exploit the political instability.

India’s Role in the Separation

India actively fanned the flames of division through “Operation Jackpot,” an orchestrated effort to support insurgents in East Pakistan. The Indian army collaborated with the Mukti Bahini, a militant group, to destabilize the region. This coordination resulted in widespread bloodshed, as streets in East Pakistan were consumed by violence and chaos.

Despite being embroiled in a domestic crisis, Pakistan looked to its allies for support. The arrival of the U.S. Sixth Fleet was anticipated as a lifeline, but help never came. The silence of friendly nations during this critical time left Pakistan isolated in its struggle to preserve its unity.

The Birth of Bangladesh

As the conflict unfolded, Pakistan’s options dwindled. On December 16, 1971, East Pakistan officially separated to become Bangladesh, marking a heartbreaking moment in Pakistan’s history. The day was a stark reminder of the cost of internal divisions and the impact of external interference.

Lessons from the Past

The Fall of Dhaka is more than just a historical event; it is a lesson for future generations about the importance of unity, inclusive governance, and addressing grievances before they escalate into crises. It also underscores the need for vigilance against external conspiracies that seek to exploit internal vulnerabilities.

Today, as the nation reflects on the events of December 16, 1971, it is a time for Pakistan to learn from its past and renew its commitment to national unity, equity, and justice. Only by addressing these core issues can Pakistan move forward as a stronger and more cohesive nation.

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“AIK QAUM” DECLARATION OF CONCEPTION

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Our Initiative


The fabric of the Pakistani nation has something unique in its knit, something signature and so sanguine that could keep on energizing its very fibers irrespective of the floods of considerably tough challenges posed against it since its inception. There is also a belief that Pakistan has been blessed with such a golden glitter that couldn’t be ignored by any sensible system of reason and knowledge among the league of free, upright and kind nations. The credit goes to the amazing people of Pakistan. It is more exciting to find that the people of Pakistan, be it the businessmen, doctors, parents, soldiers, students, teachers, judges, labourers or lawyers etc, have assumed the duty bestowed upon them by the founder of the nation, Quaid-e-Azam Muhammad Ali Jinnah decades ago. Quaid once said “If you will work in cooperation, forgetting the past, burying the hatchet, you are bound to succeed.” At another occasion, Quaid summed this message up in just three words: Unity, Faith and Discipline. AIKQAUM.COM is an initiative built upon the idea of translating this vision of the founder of Pakistan, Quaid-e-Azam Muhammad Ali Jinnah into a fruitful action.
There is no power on earth that could restrict us from finding those beautiful commonalities among the people of this beautiful nation. It contends to promote the psyche morale of the Pakistani nation by addressing the issues instead of dodging them. We have a team of thorough professionals fully equipped to create unique platforms, forums and projects which will bring people closer on all sensitive issues related to our national identity and progress. We also have a strong support network for successful execution of all our campaigns in order to induce greater cohesion and the spirit of coexistence across the length and breadth of Pakistan. Coincidentally, we are living through an age of increased morphing of warfare in a world that’s once again moving from unipolar to a multipolar turf. The social, political, economic and technological factors shaping the evolution of warfare are being constantly experimented and employed in our own region. In a time of increased friction between regional powers and a heightened threat on the eastern border, Pakistan faces multiple challenges posed at its internal, external and economic security.
All these factors, blended with our archrival’s constant image building campaigns, a heavily funded lobbying in the West, the new Indo-US strategic alliance, as well as India’s ambition to start a space race, puts our nation on caution and throws immense burden of responsibility on our shoulders. We are witnessing a rise of sub conventional warfare fought with guns and bombs, but won on keyboards and drawing boards. AIKQAUM.COM aspires to be a strong force of defense against the subversive forces that are trying to malign Pakistan and hurt our interests in the region. We are fully trained and equipped to meet the challenges on the social and digital front.
www.aikqaum.com, info@aikqaum.com


Our Philosophy

VISION:

To create a social awareness about the values which join our nation together while countering anti-Pakistan narratives with logical and practical rationale.


MISSION:

To infuse a sense urgency for cohesion among all ethnic, political and religious schools of thought.


VALUES:

We keep integrity closest to our heart and patriotism on top of our mind. Our work ethics and commitment to our people shall empower us to achieve success in all our pursuits.

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Hiran Minar: A Timeless Mughal Architectural Marvel

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symbol of Mughal architecture and artistic legacy. This historical structure, built in the early 17th century, is not only a testament to the grandeur of the Mughal Empire but also a unique expression of their love for animals, nature, and sophisticated design.

Historical Significance

Hiran Minar was constructed during the reign of Emperor Jahangir (1605–1627) to honor his beloved antelope named Mansraj, a rare gesture of devotion. The minar, or tower, is believed to have been erected at the site where Mansraj once roamed, reflecting the emperor’s compassion and affection for animals. This architectural masterpiece served as a hunting retreat and leisure spot for the royal family.

Architectural Features

Hiran Minar is an exemplary blend of function and aesthetics. It comprises the following key features:

  1. The Tower: The centerpiece of the site, the tower stands 100 feet tall, decorated with intricate stone carvings. Circular in shape, it symbolizes the emperor’s tribute to his cherished pet.
  2. The Water Tank: Surrounding the tower is a large rectangular water tank, approximately 750 feet long and 890 feet wide. This massive reservoir not only added to the scenic beauty of the site but also served as a water source for animals and birds in the area.
  3. The Causeway and Pavilion: A stone causeway connects the tower to a beautifully designed baradari (pavilion) in the middle of the water tank. This pavilion, supported by pillars, served as a royal resting area and added an ethereal charm to the site.
  4. Hunting Grounds: The area around Hiran Minar was developed as a royal hunting park or game reserve, known as Shikargah, highlighting the Mughals’ love for nature and wildlife.

Cultural and Tourist Importance

Today, Hiran Minar attracts history enthusiasts, architects, and tourists from across the world. It is recognized as one of the finest examples of Mughal engineering, blending utility with artistic grandeur. Visitors are drawn to its serene ambiance, the reflection of the tower in the water, and the lush green surroundings that offer a glimpse into the past.

UNESCO World Heritage Potential

Hiran Minar is on Pakistan’s tentative list of UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Its unique historical narrative, architectural design, and ecological significance make it a strong contender for international recognition. Preservation efforts are ongoing to maintain its structural integrity and historical charm.

A Legacy of Compassion and Grandeur

Hiran Minar is more than a historical structure; it is a symbol of the Mughal emperor’s love for nature and animals, combined with their architectural ingenuity. For Pakistan, it remains a priceless cultural treasure, linking the present with its rich past.

Whether you’re a history lover or simply seeking a peaceful retreat, Hiran Minar offers a journey back in time, reminding us of an era when nature, art, and humanity thrived in harmony.

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