Article
Global warming deprives Koh-i-Sufaid of its peculiarity of remaining snow clad throughout year
Published
4 years agoon
By
Editor
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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The Chiltan Ibex: A Rare Treasure of Balochistan
Published
2 weeks agoon
March 19, 2025By
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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:
- Anti-Poaching Measures: Increased patrolling and strict enforcement of hunting bans have helped reduce poaching incidents.
- Habitat Restoration: Programs to control overgrazing and reforest juniper woodlands are underway to restore the ibex’s natural habitat.
- Public Awareness Campaigns: Local communities are being educated about the importance of biodiversity and the role of the Chiltan ibex in maintaining ecological balance.
- 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.
Article
Aik Qaum: The Fusion of Integrity and Patriotism
Published
2 weeks agoon
March 19, 2025By
EDITOR
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.

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.

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.


Aik Qaum, Aik Sath | Pakistan Zindabad | Pakistan Day Song | 23rd March 2024 | AIKQAUM.COM

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