Rohri: A Gateway to History and Culture

Nestled on the banks of the mighty Indus River, Rohri is a city steeped in history and rich in cultural heritage. Known for its ancient roots and vibrant traditions, Rohri offers a captivating journey through time, making it a must-visit destination in Sindh, Pakistan.

Historical Significance

Rohri's history dates back to antiquity, with its earliest references found in historical texts and folklore. One of the most notable sites in Rohri is the ancient city of Alor, which was once the capital of Sindh during the Hindu period. The ruins of Alor, with their remnants of temples and fortifications, stand as silent witnesses to the city's glorious past.

The Spiritual Heartland

Rohri is also renowned for its religious and spiritual significance. The city is home to several important Islamic shrines and mosques. The shrine of Hazrat Khwaja Khizr, located on an island in the Indus River, is a site of pilgrimage for many. It is believed that Hazrat Khwaja Khizr, a revered saint, grants blessings and fulfills the wishes of those who visit his shrine.

Cultural Riches

The cultural fabric of Rohri is woven with colorful threads of Sindhi traditions and customs. The city is famous for its handicrafts, particularly the intricate Ajrak prints and Sindhi embroidery. Visitors can explore local markets to find beautifully handcrafted items that reflect the artistic prowess of the local artisans.

Festivals and Celebrations

Rohri comes alive during various festivals and celebrations. One of the most significant events is the Urs of Hazrat Sadruddin Shah Badshah, which attracts devotees from all over the region. The Urs is marked by vibrant processions, devotional music, and traditional dances, offering a glimpse into the spiritual fervor and cultural vibrancy of Rohri.

Exploring Rohri

For travelers seeking to explore Rohri, there are several must-visit sites. The Sadh Belo Temple, located on an island in the Indus River, is a serene place of worship and tranquility. The Lansdowne Bridge, a marvel of engineering from the British era, connects Rohri with Sukkur and offers breathtaking views of the river.

Sukkur Barrage Gate Collapse Shocks Officials

Sindh Irrigation Minister Jam Khan Shoro, Irrigation Secretary Zarif Khero, Sukkur Mayor Arslan Islam Shaikh, and other senior officials were shocked when they discovered that one of the gates of the Sukkur Barrage had collapsed and another one was heavily damaged on Thursday evening.

Damaged Gate 44 at Sukkur Barrage

Even after 24 hours, no senior official could explain why this happened.

Upon hearing about the incident, the Sukkur commissioner, deputy commissioner, and other senior officials and engineers rushed to the barrage late Thursday night. The minister, secretary, and mayor visited the site on Friday to assess the situation. They saw that gate number 44 was heavily damaged, while gate number 47 had collapsed and fallen into the deep water, making it invisible.

Superintendent Engineer Fayyaz Shah, when asked by the media, suggested that the damage could have been caused by water pressure or something else, but he wasn't sure. He guessed that the collapsed gate might have been hit by a large object like a tree trunk carried by the floodwater.

In 2010 and 2011, during super floods, the Sukkur Barrage had handled about one million cusecs of water without any gate damage. Currently, the Indus River is in a low flood state, with the discharge upstream at 160,000 cusecs and downstream at 102,000 cusecs. The gates were not under pressure from floodwater.

Sources said that the rising water levels in the Indus were due to continuous snow melting and heavy rains in the northern region. However, the water flow at Guddu Barrage on Thursday was much lower, with 140,000 cusecs upstream and 130,000 cusecs downstream.

Senior officials briefed Jam Khan Shoro and Zarif Khero about the damage. Later, Mr. Shoro informed the media that repair work had begun. He mentioned that water supply to the Left Bank and Right Bank canals would be temporarily suspended for repairs. Water was being released downstream to reduce pressure and ensure the barrage's safety. The minister apologized to the public, especially farmers, for the inconvenience and assured them that the repairs would be completed as soon as possible.

Due to the repair work, water supply to Nara, Rohri, Khairpur East, Khairpur West, Northern Dadu, Rice Canal, and NW Canal would be suspended, according to a spokesman for Irrigation Minister Jam Khan Shoro.

Published in Dawn, June 22nd, 2024

Sukkur Barrage, Gate Collapse, Irrigation Minister Jam Khan Shoro, Flood Damage, Water Pressure, Emergency Repairs, Indus River Flood, Sukkur Mayor Arslan Islam Shaikh, Barrage Safety, Sindh Irrigation Department

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Polio Alert in Sukkur: Vaccination is Crucial

 KARACHI: Divisional Commissioner Sukkur, Fayyaz Hussain Abbasi, has confirmed the detection of the polio virus in an environmental sample from Sukkur and a polio case in Shikarpur.

Importance of Vaccination Abbasi stressed the critical need for vaccinating children with two drops of the polio vaccine to prevent the virus. He highlighted that Pakistan and Afghanistan are the only countries still affected by polio, and Sukkur's central location puts it at heightened risk.

Current Polio Cases This year, Balochistan has reported over 12 polio cases, with many people traveling to Sukkur. In Sindh, three cases have been reported: two from Karachi and one from Shikarpur.

Upcoming Polio Campaign Abbasi urged parents to ensure their children receive polio vaccinations during the upcoming campaign from September 9 to 15.

Polio virus, Sukkur polio cases, Polio vaccination, Fayyaz Hussain Abbasi, Shikarpur polio case, Pakistan polio outbreak, Polio in Afghanistan, Environmental sample polio, Polio campaign dates,September 9-15 polio campaign, Sindh polio cases, Balochistan polio cases, Prevent polio, Polio drops for children

Dear Parents and Guardians,

We understand that there are many concerns and misconceptions about the polio vaccine. However, we want to assure you that the polio vaccine is halal and safe for your children. Vaccinating your children with just two drops can prevent them from contracting this life-threatening virus.

Pakistan and Afghanistan are the only countries still struggling with polio, and we must take every step possible to protect our children. Let's not allow unfounded rumors to put our children's health at risk. By participating in the upcoming polio campaign from September 9 to 15, we can ensure a healthier future for all.

Let's work together to make polio a thing of the past. Your cooperation and commitment to vaccinating your children will make a significant difference.

Stay informed, stay safe, and protect your children from polio.

Doctor Holding Polio Vaccine

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Train Service Suspended from Sukkur to Karachi After Accident at Kotri

A passenger train traveling from Sukkur to Karachi derailed at Kotri Junction, halting rail services.

Three carriages of the Sukkur Express went off the tracks, damaging the railway infrastructure. Pakistan Railways' technical teams immediately started repairing the tracks.

Authorities separated the three derailed carriages and moved passengers to the remaining carriages for safety. Other trains, like Mehran Express and Bahauddin Zakariya Express, were stopped at Hyderabad Station to ensure passenger safety and assist with repairs.

In September, Pakistan Railways reported progress in fixing a bridge damaged by a terrorist attack in Quetta, Balochistan. About 40% of the work on the bridge, which was targeted on August 26, has been completed. This attack had disrupted major train services, causing problems for thousands of passengers and financial losses for the railway department. The bridge repair is moving quickly, with 20% completed by mid-September.

Technical issues on the Lahore-Okara railway track were also resolved, and trains are now running at approved speeds. This announcement came after an inspection led by DS Railways Muhammad Hanif Gul in early September. Enhanced monitoring and efforts by railway workers helped address these challenges.

Restoring these key infrastructure points is a big step towards overcoming disruptions caused by recent terrorist activities, ensuring safe and efficient train travel in the affected regions.

Train derailment Sukkur to Karachi Kotri Junction Pakistan Railways Railway infrastructure Sukkur Express Passenger safety Mehran Express Bahauddin Zakariya Express Hyderabad Station Train accident Railway repair Train service suspension Railway bridge restoration Terrorist attack Quetta Lahore-Okara railway track Railway disruptions

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Benazir Hari Card: Transforming Farmers' Lives in Sukkur and Ghotki

In a significant move to support the agricultural community, the Sindh government has registered as many as 42,000 farmers, including 1,000 women, in Sukkur and Ghotki districts for the Benazir Hari Card. This initiative, which aims to register 1.5 million farmers across the province, is designed to provide essential financial assistance, enabling farmers to purchase crucial agricultural inputs such as seeds, fertilizers, and other supplies at subsidized rates.

During a ceremony held at a local banquet hall in Rohri, the Sindh Minister for Agriculture highlighted the launch of the Hari Card on the directives of PPP Chairman Bilawal Bhutto Zardari. This card is intended to offer much-needed relief to farmers. Significant progress has already been made, with 336,000 farmers registered so far, and 298,000 eligible for the wheat subsidy program under the Benazir Hari Card. To date, Rs18 billion has been disbursed to beneficiaries.

The Benazir Hari Card, a multi-purpose ATM card, will facilitate direct transfers of government subsidies to farmers. The program will be implemented in two phases: initially targeting farmers with 1-25 acres of land, followed by the inclusion of farmers with larger holdings without any upper limit on land size.

Benazir Hari Card

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Discover Rohri: A Hidden Gem of Historical Significance and Cultural Charm

Nestled along the banks of the Indus River, Rohri is a city that pulses with historical significance and cultural charm. While often overshadowed by larger cities, Rohri offers a unique glimpse into Pakistan's rich heritage and vibrant local life.

Historical Significance

Rohri is one of the oldest continuously inhabited places in the region, with a history dating back thousands of years. The city is home to numerous archaeological sites, including the ancient Buddhist stupa of Satyan and the historic Lansdowne Bridge, which connects Rohri to Sukkur. These landmarks are not just remnants of the past; they tell stories of ancient civilizations and colonial eras that have shaped the city.

Cultural Richness

The culture of Rohri is a tapestry woven with traditions, festivals, and local customs. The city’s residents are known for their hospitality and warmth. The annual Urs festival at the shrine of Sufi saint Khwaja Khizr draws visitors from all over Pakistan, offering a colorful display of local music, dance, and cuisine. Walking through Rohri's bustling bazaars, one can find intricate handicrafts, traditional garments, and delicious street food that reflect the region's diverse cultural heritage.

Natural Beauty

Rohri's location along the Indus River provides it with stunning natural landscapes. The riverbanks are perfect for a peaceful stroll or a boat ride to take in the serene surroundings. Nearby, the Lab-e-Mehran park offers lush greenery and a perfect spot for picnics and family outings. The city's proximity to the desert also provides opportunities for adventurous excursions and exploring the unique desert flora and fauna.

Local Cuisine

No visit to Rohri is complete without indulging in its local cuisine. From savory biryanis and rich curries to sweet treats like pitha and halwa, the food here is a reflection of the area's agricultural abundance and culinary traditions. Make sure to visit a local dhaba (roadside restaurant) for an authentic dining experience.

Conclusion

Rohri may not be as well-known as other tourist destinations in Pakistan, but its historical, cultural, and natural treasures make it a hidden gem worth exploring. Whether you're a history enthusiast, a culture buff, or simply looking for a quiet escape, Rohri has something special to offer. Plan your visit and uncover the many layers of this fascinating city.

Rohri

Historical Significance

Cultural Charm

Indus River

Ancient Buddhist Stupa

Lansdowne Bridge

Archaeological Sites

Festivals

Urs Festival

Sufi Saint Khwaja Khizr

Local Cuisine

Handicrafts

Traditional Garments

Natural Beauty

Lab-e-Mehran Park

Indus Riverbank

Holiday Destinations in Pakistan

Travel Guide Rohri

Pakistani Heritage

Quiet Escapes in Pakistan

Reference:

"Discover Rohri: A Hidden Gem of Historical Significance and Cultural Charm." Blog post on www.rohri.net.Highlights include:

The historical significance of Rohri with landmarks like the ancient Buddhist stupa and Lansdowne Bridge.

Cultural richness showcased through local festivals, bazaars, and cuisine.

Natural beauty along the Indus River and parks like Lab-e-Mehran.

The unique blend of history, culture, and nature in Rohri, making it a must-visit destination in Pakistan.

Discovering the Rich Flavors of Sindhi Cuisine: A Dive into Local Delicacies

When it comes to exploring the rich tapestry of regional dishes, Sindhi cuisine stands out with its unique flavors and cultural significance. From the aromatic Sindhi Biryani to the wholesome Sai Bhaji, these dishes offer a glimpse into the heart and soul of Sindh.

Indulge in the rich and aromatic flavors of Sindhi Biryani. This beautifully plated dish features layers of fragrant basmati rice, tender marinated meat, and a vibrant blend of spices. Garnished with fresh herbs and a slice of lemon, it's a feast for both the eyes and the taste buds."

Sindhi Biryani: A Symphony of Spices

Sindhi Biryani is not just a dish; it's an experience. This aromatic, spicy biryani is a staple in Sindhi households and has a rich history that dates back centuries. The combination of tender meat, fragrant rice, and a medley of spices creates a mouth-watering explosion of flavors. Every mouthful unveils a tale of culinary evolution and the mingling of cultures.

Key Ingredients: Basmati rice, marinated meat (chicken or mutton), yogurt, potatoes, and a blend of spices like cumin, cardamom, and cloves.

Cultural Significance: Traditionally, Sindhi Biryani is prepared during special occasions and family gatherings, symbolizing togetherness and celebration.

Sai Bhaji: A Nutritious Delight

Another gem from Sindhi cuisine is Sai Bhaji, a nutritious and delicious dish made with spinach, lentils, and a variety of vegetables. This wholesome dish is often paired with steamed rice or flatbread, making it a perfect comfort food.

Key Ingredients: Spinach, chana dal (split chickpeas), tomatoes, onions, and a mix of spices including turmeric and coriander.

Cultural Significance: Sai Bhaji is cherished for its health benefits and is a staple in Sindhi households. It represents the region's agricultural heritage and the importance of a balanced diet.

Embracing the Diversity of Sindhi Cuisine

From savory snacks like Koki (a type of flatbread) to sweet treats like Ladoo, Sindhi cuisine is a treasure trove of flavors waiting to be explored. By diving into these unique regional dishes, we not only savor their deliciousness but also honor the rich cultural heritage they represent.

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