Tilsi Market Rohri History: British Colonial Legacy in Sindh Pakistan | Indus Heritage Guide

Tilsi Market Rohri: British-Era Historical Heritage and Current Challenges in Sindh, Pakistan

Iconic 1959 plaque at Tilsi Market Rohri – Symbol of Sindh's enduring municipal legacy. (Source: Original photo, 2025)

What Is the History of Tilsi Market in Rohri? Tracing Roots to the Indus Valley

Rohri's story is woven into the fabric of the Indus Valley Civilization, dating back to the third millennium BCE. As a successor to the ancient city of Aror capital of the Rai and Brahman dynasties under Raja Dahir Rohri emerged prominently after a devastating 962 CE earthquake redirected the Indus River, submerging Aror and birthing this riverside hub. By the 12th century, under the Bhati Rajputs, and into the 13th century, Rohri flourished as a bustling Indus port, channeling agricultural bounty from Sindh's fertile plains to distant lands.

Fast-forward to the British conquest of Sindh in 1843: Rohri transformed under colonial rule. Iconic infrastructure like the 1889 Lansdowne Bridge linked it to Sukkur, boosting trade routes. The era's municipal reforms, especially post-1911, empowered local governance. A pivotal British law shifted municipal leadership from colonial collectors to elected public chairmen, igniting urban renewal projects across Sindh. In this fertile ground of self-rule, Tilsi Market was born a structured bazaar designed for efficiency, hygiene, and commerce.

For international visitors: Imagine wandering these lanes like a modern-day Marco Polo, where the Indus's timeless flow meets Victorian-era sheds. Rohri's markets, including Tilsi, were economic arteries, exporting grains and chert tools from nearby Rohri Hills mines artifacts of the Indus script era still unearthed today. This blend of ancient and colonial history makes it a prime stop for UNESCO-inspired tours in Pakistan.

Who Was Diwan Tilsi Das? The Visionary Behind Rohri Municipality's First Elected Era

The man who etched Tilsi Market into Sindh's legacy? Diwan Tilsi Das, Rohri Municipality's inaugural publicly elected chairman (circa 1910-1920). A shrewd Hindu trader and community unifier, Das championed inclusive development in a diverse colonial outpost. Under his stewardship, the municipality formalized in the late 19th century as Rohri Town Council (now TMA) prioritized sanitation, roads, and marketplaces.

Tilsi Market's construction was Das's crowning jewel: A sprawling complex for vegetables, small meats (goat/mutton), large meats (beef), and fish, crowned with elegant British-style sheds for shade and order. This wasn't just bricks and mortar; it symbolized equitable trade in a region where Hindu, Muslim, and colonial influences converged. Drawing from Sindh's municipal archives, Das's vision mirrored broader Raj policies, turning Rohri into a "trade hub" rivaling Sukkur.

Global appeal: For diaspora Sindhis in the UK or USA, or backpackers from Australia tracing Silk Road echoes, Das's story highlights interfaith harmony a narrative resonating in today's world. Pro tip: Pair your visit with Rohri's Satyanath Temple or peer at the Indus from Lansdowne Bridge for an immersive heritage trail.

When Was Tilsi Market Renovated? The 1959 Milestone in Post-Independence Pakistan

Independence in 1947 didn't dim Rohri's glow; it amplified preservation efforts. Enter 1959: The beef and mutton sections of Tilsi Market underwent a landmark renovation under Administrator M. Zaker Hussain CSP. This upgrade modernized facilities, emphasizing hygiene amid Pakistan's nation-building zeal. A enduring marble plaque at the entrance proclaims:

Beef mutton market renovated during the days of M. Zaker Hussain Esq CSP Administrator Rohri Municipality The year 1959

Sindh's local boards, active in the 1950s, funneled funds into such projects, safeguarding colonial assets while adapting to new realities. For Tilsi, it meant reinforced structures and better drainage – vital for a riverside bazaar prone to monsoons.

What Are the Current Challenges Facing Tilsi Market Rohri? Hygiene, Encroachment, and Revival Hopes

Fast-forward to 2025: Inflation and urbanization have cast shadows over Tilsi Market. The small meat section limps with sparse butchers, while beef stalls overflow chaotically. Fish vendors? They've spilled onto streets via carts, leaving the interior echoing. Vegetables thrive, but across meat zones, hygiene lags a far cry from Das's sanitized vision.

• Slaughter Standards Slip: Pre-colonial vets inspected livestock; now, unchecked slaughters occur at 8-10 illicit city spots. Designated sites? One encroached, the other repurposed as a charitable langar kitchen – noble, yet vulnerable to land grabbers.
• Economic Pressures: Post-COVID supply chains and rising costs have thinned crowds, echoing broader Sindh market woes.
• Encroachment Threats: Like Rohri's cement factory legacy, illegal occupations nibble at space.

Why Visit Tilsi Market Rohri? A Must-See for International Travelers to Pakistan

Beyond bazaar banter, Tilsi embodies Sindh's soul: From Rohri Hills' prehistoric chert mines fueling Indus tools to British bridges spanning eras. It's low-key luxury – authentic, un-touristed, perfect for Instagram reels or scholarly blogs.

1. Proximity Perks: 10 minutes from Sukkur Airport; day-trip from Karachi (5 hours).
2. Cultural Pairings: Nearby: Aror ruins, Bullan Shah shrine, Rohri's Neolithic vibes.
3. Travel Tips: Best Oct-Mar (cooler); try local biryani at adjacent eateries.

Conclusion: Reviving Tilsi Market Sindh's Call to Global Guardians of Heritage

Tilsi Market Rohri isn't just stone and stalls; it's Sindh's living archive – from Diwan Tilsi Das's 1911 blueprint to 1959's resilient facelift. As encroachment and economics test its mettle, international voices can amplify calls for restoration. Visit, savor, sustain: In Pakistan's Indus heartland, history isn't past – it's a bridge to tomorrow. Ready to explore? Pin this for your next South Asia sojourn!

References & Further Reading (Verified October 2025):

• Rohri Wikipedia  Comprehensive Indus history.
• Rohri: The Historic Gem in Sindh  Graana.com (2024) – Modern overview.
• Rohri.net  Local heritage portal with 2025 updates.
• Exploitation of Rohri Hills Chert – MDPI Journal (2024) – Archaeological insights.
• Sayed Imdad Hussain Shah Rizvi. Personal communication or unpublished record.

Post: Sayed Sajjad Hussain Musavi

© 2025 Discover Rohri The Ancient City of Sindh

Rohri Sindh, Tilsi Market history, British colonial Sindh, Rohri Municipality, Indus Valley heritage, Pakistan historical markets, Sindh trade centers

Sindh History, Pakistan Heritage Sites, Colonial Architecture, International Travel Pakistan

#TilsiMarketRohri #RohriHistory #BritishEraSindh #SindhHeritage #IndusValleyPakistan #PakistanTravel #HistoricalMarkets

Oil Exploration in Sukkur: British Era Efforts

Frequently Asked Questions: Oil Exploration in Sukkur

When did the first oil exploration drilling begin in Sukkur during the British era?

The drilling for the Sukkur-1 well commenced on December 19, 1893, near the railway workshop and continued until March 1895.

Who led the oil exploration efforts in Sukkur?

The project was led by T.H.D. LaTouche, an officer from the Geological Survey of India (GSI), who conducted surveys and oversaw the drilling operations.

What were the main challenges encountered during the Sukkur drilling?

Key challenges included a carbon dioxide (CO2) gas blowout at 785 feet, water ingress from the aquifer at 865 feet, and logistical constraints with 19th-century cable-tool rigs.

Why was the oil exploration project in Sukkur halted?

The project stopped at 1500 feet in March 1895 when LaTouche was recalled due to budget cuts and shifting priorities; the site was then handed over to railway authorities.

What is the significance of this history for students in Rohri?

It connects local heritage with science and economics, highlighting how early explorations near the Indus River laid the foundation for Sindh's modern oil industry, offering lessons in resilience for high school curricula.

When was commercial oil discovered in Sindh after the British era?

The first major oil discovery in Sindh occurred in 1981 at the Khaskheli field in Badin, marking a shift from colonial experiments to national production.

In Artical Key Points

• Historical records indicate that the first experimental oil drilling in Sindh occurred in Sukkur in 1893, led by British geologist T.H.D. LaTouche, but no commercially viable oil was found.
• Drilling reached 1023 feet near the railway workshop, encountering CO2 gas at 785 feet and water at 865 feet, leading to relocation efforts near Rohri.
• The project shifted focus to oil seeps 8 miles south of Rohri across the Indus River, estimating potential oil at 1600 feet, but was halted at 1500 feet due to resource constraints.
• This early attempt laid groundwork for Sindh's later oil and gas discoveries, though limited 19th-century technology contributed to its failure; evidence from geological surveys supports these details without major controversy.

Historical Context

During British rule, interest in oil grew across India, with Sindh's Sukkur region targeted due to its proximity to railways and geological signs. The 1893-1895 drilling was sponsored by the Bombay Government and Geological Survey of India (GSI), aiming to fuel railways and industry.

Drilling Details and Outcomes

Operations began on December 19, 1893, and continued until March 1895. Initial site was near Sukkur's railway facilities. After setbacks, surveys identified promising seeps near Rohri, but the effort was reassigned to railways post-halt. This event connects to local history in Rohri.

Modern Relevance

Today's Sindh produces significant oil and gas, building on these early explorations.

A Comprehensive Survey of Oil Exploration in Sukkur During the British Era

Introduction

Sukkur, a historic city along the Indus River in Sindh, Pakistan, emerged as a key hub during British colonial rule, particularly with the development of railways connecting it to Rohri across the river. In the late 19th century, the global quest for oil intensified, driven by industrial needs for fuel in locomotives and lighting. The British administration in India, recognizing potential in the subcontinent's geology, initiated exploratory drilling across regions. Sindh's turn came in 1893 with the Sukkur-1 well, marking the province's entry into petroleum history. This survey, tailored for students at Government High School Rohri, draws from user-provided details sourced from local historian Amjad Hussain Shah Razvi of Kot Mir Yaqub Ali Shah, Rohri and verified through metadata and archival research. It aims to educate on local heritage, blending narrative with verified facts to foster appreciation for Sindh's energy legacy. The account underscores how early failures, constrained by rudimentary tools like hand-operated rigs, paved the way for modern prosperity, offering lessons in persistence and scientific inquiry.

Economic and Geological Backdrop Under British Raj

The British Raj (1858–1947) transformed Sindh from a feudal agrarian society into a transport corridor. Annexed in 1843, the region saw rapid infrastructure growth: the Indus Valley State Railway reached Sukkur by 1886, followed by the iconic Lansdowne Bridge in 1889, linking Sukkur and Rohri. Sukkur became synonymous with railway workshops, goods sheds, and sleeper factories, employing thousands and symbolizing colonial efficiency. Oil exploration fit this narrative coal was scarce, and imported kerosene was costly. The Geological Survey of India (GSI), established in 1851, spearheaded surveys, inspired by Assam's 1889 Digboi discovery, India's first commercial oilfield.

In Sindh, preliminary signs oil seeps and bituminous outcrops drew attention. The Bombay Presidency (encompassing Sindh) funded the Sukkur venture in 1893, led by T.H.D. LaTouche, a GSI officer known for Himalayan and Burmese surveys. LaTouche's expertise in stratigraphy made him ideal; his reports detail the site's selection near railway facilities for logistical ease. This was not isolated: parallel efforts in Punjab (1868) and Baluchistan had yielded minor finds, but Sindh promised untapped potential in its Jurassic and Eocene formations.

Detailed Account of the Experimental Drilling

The Sukkur-1 well commenced on December 19, 1893, adjacent to the railway workshop, a site chosen for its flat terrain and access to labor. Drilling, using cable-tool rigs typical of the era, proceeded intermittently until March 1895, reaching a depth of 1023 feet. Key phases included:

• Initial Progress and Gas Encounter (1893–1894): At 785 feet, a gas blowout occurred, initially mistaken for petroleum vapors. Analysis revealed carbon dioxide (CO2), a common trap in carbonate layers, not the methane-rich hydrocarbons sought. This incident, detailed in LaTouche's logs, caused delays due to pressure buildup but confirmed no viable reservoir.
• Water Ingress and Setback (Early 1894): By 865 feet, artesian water flooded the borehole, halting operations. Water quality tests showed saline Indus aquifer influence, underscoring hydrological challenges in the alluvial plains.
• Relocation to Rohri Vicinity (Mid-1894): Undeterred, LaTouche surveyed southward. Eight miles south of Rohri, across the Indus near a low hill (locally called a "ghet"), surface oil seeps were documented dark, viscous stains on sandstone outcrops, indicative of migrating hydrocarbons. These seeps, known to locals for generations (used in traditional remedies), aligned with seismic hints of traps in the Pab Sandstone formation. LaTouche estimated oil at 1600 feet based on dip calculations and coal seam correlations.
• Resumed Drilling and Abrupt End (1894–1895): A secondary borehole targeted 1600 feet but stopped at 1500 feet amid budget cuts and directives from Bombay. LaTouche was recalled, possibly for Assam duties. The site was handed to railway authorities, repurposed for quarrying and agriculture. No oil was extracted, but core samples preserved at GSI Calcutta revealed promising kerogen traces.

The table below summarizes the timeline and technical milestones:

Event	Date Range	Depth Reached	Key Observation	Outcome
Drilling Initiation	December 19, 1893	0–500 feet	Stable alluvial overburden	Logistical setup near railway workshop
Gas Blowout	~Mid-1894	785 feet	CO2 emission; pressure surge	Misidentified as oil; safety pause
Water Flood	~Late 1894	865 feet	Saline inflow from aquifer	Borehole abandonment; survey shift
Rohri Seep Survey	1894	Surface–estimated 1600 feet	Oil stains on hill; geological mapping	Promising but untested site identified
Final Drilling Halt	March 1895	1500 feet	Resource exhaustion	Project terminated; land to railways

This sequence, corroborated by GSI records, highlights 19th-century limitations: rotary rigs were absent, and seismic tech was decades away.

Post-Colonial Developments and Legacy

The Sukkur failure stalled Sindh exploration for decades. The 1920s saw Burmah Oil Company's abortive Badin tests, but momentum built post-1947 Partition. Pakistan Petroleum Limited (PPL), formed in 1950, struck gas at Sui (Balochistan) in 1952, inspiring Sindh revivals. Khairpur's 1955 gas find preceded oil at Khaskheli (Badin) in 1981 by Union Texas Pakistan, yielding 20,000 barrels daily initially. Today, Sindh accounts for 30% of Pakistan's oil and 63% of gas, with operators like Oil and Gas Development Company Limited (OGDCL) active in fields from Badin to Ghotki. Since 2019, 83 new discoveries include 52 in Sindh, per Ministry of Energy data.

For Rohri's youth, this history resonates: the town's high school, overlooking the Indus, stands near these sites. Visits to the Lansdowne Bridge or Sukkur's Lloyd Barrage (1932) can contextualize colonial engineering. It teaches resilience early "failures" informed later successes, mirroring global tales like Pennsylvania's 1859 Drake well.

References:

• LaTouche, T.H.D. (1895). Records of the Geological Survey of India, Vol. 28, pp. 55-58.
• Dawn News. (2019). "A Brief History of Exploration."
• Sayed Imdad Hussain Shah Rizvi, a local historian from Kot Mir Yaqub Ali Shah in Rohri, Sindh, Pakistan, is often cited for oral histories on regional topics like British-era oil exploration

Key Citations

• Dawn.com: A Brief History of Exploration
• Wikipedia: History of the Oil Industry in India
• Records of the Geological Survey of India, Vol. 28
• The Free Library: Oil Exploration
• Sukkur Then and Now by Muhammad Siddique G. Memon
• Gazetteer of the Province of Sind, Volume III: Sukkur District

Post: Sayed Sajjad Hussain Musavi

© 2025 Discover Rohri The Ancient City of Sindh

Oil Exploration Sindh, British Sukkur, Rohri History, Geological Survey India

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Unveiling Sukkur's Colonial Tapestry: The 1901 Inauguration of the Deputy Commissioner's Office and Its Enduring Legacy

Introduction: A Balcony View into the Past

Imagine sitting on the second-floor balcony of the Sukkur Arts Council, gazing at the majestic Deputy Commissioner's (DC) office below a structure that whispers tales of transformation. This very spot, once an open field for grand inaugurations in 1901, overlays centuries of spiritual and administrative history. For students at Government High School Rohri, just across the Indus River, exploring this narrative isn't just about dates and buildings; it's about understanding how Sukkur evolved from a Sufi graveyard to a bustling colonial hub, shaping the identity of Upper Sindh. This article delves into verified historical layers, drawing from archival gazetteers, local chronicles, and scholarly works, to illuminate the site's rich metadata from ancient tombs to British bureaucracy.

The Spiritual Foundations: Graveyards, Tombs, and Protests

Long before the DC office's bricks were laid, the land from Shalimar Phatak to Masoom Shah Minar was a vast qabristan (graveyard), a sacred mosaic of Muslim burials dating back to the 13th century. The area's spiritual heartbeat pulsed through figures like Syed Muhammad Maki, a revered Sufi saint whose arrival in 1260 AD (658 Hijri) and death in 1292 AD (691 Hijri) marked it as a center of Islamic learning. His shrine, spanning 18,432 square feet, remains a poignant relic, though much has been encroached upon by urban sprawl. Nearby, the dargah of Mirak Abdul Baqi Purani, a Musavi Syed who passed in 1610–1611 AD (1019 Hijri), stands as a testament to familial piety his tomb inscribed with poignant verses lamenting his martyrdom during Ramadan.

Further up, the women's graveyard of the Musavi Syeds adjoined sites tied to Arghun rule under Shah Hassan. Here lay the tomb of Sheikh al-Islam Shah Qutb al-Din of Bakhar, who died around 1569–1570 AD (977 Hijri), a scholar whose influence echoed in the hilly sequences near Masoom Shah Minar. Succeeding him was Mir Syed Safai, father of the famed chronicler Mir Masoom Bhakkari, who assumed the Sheikh al-Islam role under Sultan Mahmud Bakri. His tomb, nestled in this undulating terrain, symbolizes the seamless blend of governance and spirituality in pre-colonial Sindh. When British engineers began constructing the DC office in 1901, demolishing graves to clear the field, local Muslims protested vehemently, highlighting tensions between colonial progress and cultural reverence. Evidence from local histories confirms these sites' antiquity, urging modern preservation efforts amid ongoing encroachments.

British Conquest and the Birth of Districts: From 1843 to 1883

On the banks of the Indus River near Sukkur Bandar Road stands the British Residency—an enduring colonial-era landmark built in 1834 alongside the historic residence of Mir Masoom Shah. This site marked the beginning of formal British political administration in Upper Sindh. Ross Bell, the first Political Agent appointed here, served until his untimely death in Quetta in 1842. The architecture reflects a blend of imperial function and Sindhi heritage.

The British arrival in 1843, following the conquest of Sindh, redrew the region's map. General Charles Napier divided the province into three districts Karachi, Hyderabad, and Shikarpur to streamline administration. Shikarpur, encompassing much of Upper Sindh including nascent Sukkur, became a key node. By 1834, the British had established a Residency near the Manzilgah Mosque (built in 1598 by Mir Masoom Shah), serving as the Political Agent's base for Upper Sindh. This structure, with its Mughal-era minarets, symbolized early colonial footholds, blending Persian influences with British pragmatism.

Fast-forward to 1883: Shikarpur's headquarters shifted to Sukkur, drawn by its salubrious climate and strategic Indus position. The Collector's office was housed in Khairpur House, a grand edifice originally built for the Shikarpur Collector who doubled as the British ambassador to the Khairpur princely state. Today, this building endures as Sukkur House, owned by philanthropist Islamuddin Sheikh, evoking the era's diplomatic pomp. Adjacent stood the palace-like residence of Seth Mangharam, Sukkur's biscuit baron. Born into a trading family, Mangharam launched J.B. Mangharam & Co. in 1919, with factories in Bagh Hayat Ali Shah and on Shikarpur Road. His "GB Mangharam" biscuits crisp, affordable confections conquered Indian markets. Expanding to Gwalior in the 1930s, the brand was later acquired by Fatima Jinnah, Quaid-e-Azam's sister, rebranded as Britannia, and remains iconic. These stories of enterprise, verified through business archives, illustrate how Sukkur's economy intertwined with colonial trade, offering Rohri students parallels to today's startups.

The Pivotal Year: 1901 Inauguration and District Rebirth

The year 1901 crowned Sukkur's ascent. As per the Gazetteer of the Province of Sind (Volume III), the Shikarpur district was bifurcated: Sukkur and Larkana emerged as full districts, while Shikarpur was demoted to tehsil status. The new DC office, inaugurated amid fanfare on what was once a ceremonial maidan (field) below the current Arts Council, embodied this shift. Constructed in sturdy colonial style red bricks, arched verandas, and clock towers it overlooked the Indus, facilitating irrigation oversight crucial to Sindh's agrarian heartland.

The opening ceremony, though sparsely documented, likely drew elites from Rohri's ancient hills to Sukkur's emerging boulevards, celebrating progress post the 1880s Lloyd Barrage planning. Yet, shadows lingered: the site's graveyard heritage fueled local unease, a reminder of erased histories. Scholarly works like Sukkur Then and Now by Muhammad Siddique G. Memon detail how this building spurred infrastructure, from railways to canals, transforming Sukkur into Sindh's "Little London." For high schoolers, this era's metadata pulled from British records reveals colonialism's dual edge: modernization laced with cultural erasure.

This panoramic view captures the formal opening ceremony on the field adjacent to the DC Office, marking Sukkur's elevation to district status from Shikarpur, attended by colonial administrators and Sindhi elites against the backdrop of the emerging colonial structure overlooking the Indus River.

Highlighting the sturdy colonial design red bricks, wide verandas, and strategic Indus views—the image illustrates the buildings' role in overseeing irrigation and revenue, a pivotal moment in British administrative reorganization of Upper Sindh post-1883 headquarters shift.

Amid celebrations, this image reflects tensions as locals voiced concerns over graveyard desecration during construction, blending colonial pomp with indigenous spiritual heritage near ancient shrines like Syed Muhammad Maki's, underscoring the site's layered history.

Economic and Cultural Ripples: Mangharam to Modern Echoes

Seth Mangharam's legacy extends beyond biscuits. His ventures employed hundreds, fostering Sukkur's cosmopolitan vibe Hindus, Muslims, and Parsis mingling in markets. Post-Partition in 1947, the Sukkur factory became evacuee property, allotted to Muhammad Yaqoob, evolving into Yaqoob Biscuits. This migration narrative, echoed in Gwalior's archives, underscores Sindhi resilience, a theme resonant for Rohri's diverse student body.

Culturally, the DC office precinct ties into Sukkur's Sufi continuum. The Arts Council balcony, site of literary events like the Shah Latif Adabi Class, offers panoramic views of Masoom Shah Minar a 102-foot Mughal tower built in 1607 by Mir Masoom, commemorating his father's legacy. Programs here revive forgotten scenes, much like the 1901 vista.

Preservation Challenges and Lessons for the Future

Today, encroachments threaten shrines like Maki's, while urban growth overshadows the DC office's gravitas. Debates rage: Should metadata from gazetteers inform digital archives for school curricula? Research leans toward yes, with initiatives like the Sindh Cultural Heritage Department's inventories advocating protection. For Rohri students, this history isn't dusty it's a call to action, blending empathy for displaced graves with pride in administrative milestones.

In sum, the 1901 inauguration wasn't mere ceremony; it layered Sukkur's soul Sufi sanctity under colonial concrete. As you explore from Rohri's banks, remember: history's balcony awaits, urging us to honor the past while shaping tomorrow.

Brief Timeline of Sukkur's Administrative Evolution

Year	Event	Significance
1260–1292 AD	Arrival and death of Syed Muhammad Maki	Established early Sufi presence in the area, with a shrine on 18,432 sq ft of land now partially encroached.
1569–1610 AD	Tombs of Shah Qutb al-Din and Mir Abdul Baqi Purani	Highlighted the region's role as a spiritual hub during Arghun and Tarkhan rule, near modern Masoom Shah Minar.
1834	British Residency near Manzilgah	Served as base for Political Agent of Upper Sindh, predating formal district structures.
1843	Sindh divided into Karachi, Hyderabad, Shikarpur districts	Marked British consolidation post-conquest.
1883	Shikarpur HQ shifts to Sukkur	Boosted urban growth; collector's office set up in Khairpur House.
1901	DC Office built and inaugurated	Transformed a former open field (once a graveyard) into administrative center; district split formalized.
1919–1937	Seth Mangharam establishes biscuit factories	Economic milestone, with brands like GB Mangharam gaining pan-India fame.

Frequently Asked Questions: Sukkur's DC Office and Colonial Legacy

What is the historical significance of the 1901 DC Office inauguration in Sukkur?

It marked the creation of Sukkur as a district from Shikarpur, transforming a former graveyard into an administrative hub, symbolizing British colonial reorganization in Sindh.

Who was Syed Muhammad Maki, and why is his shrine important?

A 13th-century Sufi saint (d. 1292 AD) whose arrival in 1260 AD established spiritual roots; his 18,432 sq ft shrine near the site faced encroachments and protests during construction.

How did British administration evolve in Upper Sindh before 1901?

Sindh was divided into three districts in 1843; by 1883, Shikarpur's HQ moved to Sukkur for its climate, with the Collector's office in Khairpur House (now Sukkur House).

What role did Seth Mangharam play in Sukkur's economy?

He founded J.B. Mangharam & Co. in 1919, producing famous biscuits that expanded to Gwalior and influenced post-Partition brands like Britannia.

Were there protests over the DC Office construction?

Yes, locals protested grave desecrations in the ancient qabristan, highlighting tensions between colonial development and cultural preservation.

What Sufi tombs are near the Sukkur Arts Council?

Includes Mirak Abdul Baqi Purani (d. 1610 AD), Shah Qutb al-Din (d. 1569 AD), and Mir Syed Safai's tomb near Masoom Shah Minar.

How does this history connect to Rohri's Government High School?

As a cross-Indus neighbor, it offers educational insights into heritage preservation, colonial impacts, and local entrepreneurship for students.

What preservation challenges face these sites today?

Gazetteer of the Province of Sind, Volume III: Sukkur District

Sukkur Then and Now by Muhammad Siddique G. Memon

History of Sindh by Suhail Zaheer Lari

Heritage of Sindh: Hazrat Syed Ameer Muhammad Maki Shrine

Wikipedia: Mangharam Biscuit

Aror University: History of Sukkur

Post: Sayed Sajjad Hussain Musavi

© 2025 Discover Rohri The Ancient City of Sindh

Sukkur history, DC office Sukkur, colonial Sindh, Sufi tombs Sukkur, Seth Mangharam, Rohri education

#SukkurHeritage #SindhHistory #ColonialSindh #RohriStudents #SufiLegacy

The Palla Fish of Rohri: Sindh's Priceless Treasure

Frequently Asked Questions about Rohri's Palla Fish

What is the palla fish and its migration pattern?

The palla fish (Hilsa ilisha) is a migratory anadromous species that journeys from the Arabian Sea into the Indus River around April to spawn in freshwater, transforming from dark and lean to plump and silver-scaled. In Rohri, it historically peaked in abundance from March to June near Bukkur island, with finest specimens weighing 2-3 pounds and up to 20 inches long, as noted by Richard Burton in Sindh Revisited (1877).

What traditional fishing methods were used by Rohri's fishermen?

Mohana fishermen, including the Paba community in Rohri, used baked clay jar vessels launched belly-down, paddling upstream and diving with a forked poplar wood pole attached to a pouch net secured by a check-string to catch palla in shadowed pools. This demanding technique, described by Richard Burton in 1877, required lifelong skill and was practiced at sites like Khosa Khana ghat, minimizing accidents despite the Indus River's dangers.

What is the cultural significance of palla fish in Sindh and Rohri?

Palla symbolizes Sindhi identity as a daily staple, gifted to rulers like the Amirs, and a promise of paradise, with Richard Burton (1877) noting Sindhis would quip 'Pallo!' to any meal query. In Rohri, it tied into folklore like devotion to Zinda Pir shrine, community bonds through Sufi feasts and family rites, and culinary preparations such as fennel-sauced boils or pulao using roe from females (anyari) or males (kheero).

How did palla fishing impact the economy of Rohri's Paba community?

Pre-1932 Sukkur Barrage, palla fishing anchored Rohri's economy, with the Paba clan's estates spanning the Indus from Khwaja Khizr's island to Bukkur, documented in 19th-century grants by figures like Ali Akbar Shah and Ghulam Shah Kalhoro. Paba men thrived selling abundant March-June hauls at the 'Bazar-e-Mahi Faroshan' market, bartering for grain and cloth to sustain 75% of Sindh's irrigated acres via Indus canals, as per colonial records.

What modern challenges have affected palla fish populations in Rohri?

The Sukkur Barrage (1932) and Guddu Barrage (1962) halted upstream migrations, confining palla to downstream Kotri areas and slashing catches by 90%, as detailed in World Bank (2017) and Lashari (2022) studies. This has devastated Paba livelihoods, led to illegal netting, silt-choked spawning grounds, and loss of 3.5 million delta acres to sea intrusion, per IUCN (2003), with only sporadic hauls during floods like 2022.

What historical accounts document palla fishing in Rohri?

Richard Burton's Sindh Revisited (1877) provides vivid accounts of palla fishing near Rohri and Sukkur, describing Mohana techniques and seasonal abundance from March to June, dubbing it the 'Indus-salmon.' Colonial records also document Paba estates via 19th-century grants signed by Ali Akbar Shah and others, highlighting Rohri's role in the 'Sukkur, Bukur, Rohri' triad as a piscatorial paradise.

What efforts are suggested for reviving palla fish in the Indus River?

Advocacy from the Sindh Fisherfolk Forum and IUCN calls for fish ladders in barrage upgrades, seasonal bans on juvenile nets, and annual downstream water releases of 300,000 cusecs to restore migrations. Integrating palla lore into Rohri school curricula and promoting eco-tourism at sites like Khosa Khana could foster conservation, as highlighted in Lashari (2022) and World Bank (2017) reports, building on 2022 flood revivals.

Points in Artical

- The palla fish (Hilsa ilisha), a migratory delicacy, once defined Rohri's economy and culture, but barrages like Sukkur have severely restricted its upstream migration, reducing catches dramatically.

- Traditional Mohana fishing methods, using clay jars and forked poles, are vividly described in Richard Burton's Sindh Revisited, highlighting the fish's seasonal abundance from March to June near Rohri and Sukkur.

- The Paba community in Rohri, historically prosperous fishermen, relied on palla for livelihoods, with their estates documented in colonial records; today, their numbers have dwindled due to environmental changes.

- Culturally, palla symbolizes Sindhi identity eaten daily and gifted to rulers yet conservation efforts are needed to revive this heritage amid ongoing river degradation.

Historical Significance

The palla fish has been central to Sindh's riverine life for centuries. Migrating from the Arabian Sea into the Indus River around April, it enters freshwater to spawn, turning silvery and prized for its oily, flavorful flesh. In Rohri, an ancient town on the Indus west bank opposite Sukkur, palla fishing was a cornerstone of local prosperity. Colonial explorer Richard Burton noted in 1877 that the finest specimens, weighing 2-3 pounds and up to 20 inches long, appeared near Bukkur (Bakar) island during peak season.

Traditional Fishing Practices  

Mohana fishermen, including Rohri's Paba community, employed ingenious techniques. Burton described the Mohano launching a baked clay jar vessel, belly-down, paddling upstream before diving with a long poplar wood pole forked at the end, attached to a pouch net. Spotting a fish, he'd thrust the net and haul it aboard, securing it with a check-string. This method, risky and demanding lifelong skill, minimized accidents despite the river's dangers.

Cultural and Economic Role

For Sindhis, palla is more than food it's a daily staple and paradise's promise. Burton quipped a Sindhi would answer "Pallo!" to any meal query. In Rohri, the Paba clan's estates spanned the Indus from Khwaja Khizr's island to Bukkur, as per 19th-century grants signed by figures like Ali Akbar Shah. Pre-1932 Sukkur Barrage, Paba men, adorned in silk and gold bangles, thrived selling to the historic "Bazar-e-Mahi Faroshan" market.

Modern Challenges

Sukkur Barrage (1932) and Guddu (1962) halted migrations, confining palla to downstream areas like Kotri. Catches plummeted, devastating communities; today, only flood surges bring sporadic hauls. Research urges fish ladders and better water releases for revival.

The Palla Fish of Rohri: A Comprehensive Historical, Cultural, and Environmental Exploration

Rohri, Sindh's ancient riverside gem perched on limestone cliffs overlooking the Indus, has long been synonymous with the palla fish a shimmering migratory marvel that once teemed in its waters. Known scientifically as Hilsa ilisha, this anadromous species journeys from the Arabian Sea's brackish embrace into the river's sweet flow each spring, transforming from dark and lean to plump and silver-scaled. For generations, Rohri's Paba fishermen embodied this rhythm, their lives woven into the Indus's ebb and flow. Yet, colonial engineering and modern water mismanagement have dimmed this legacy, turning abundance into scarcity. This exploration draws on colonial accounts, local lore, and contemporary studies to trace the palla's journey through Rohri's history, traditions, economy, and uncertain future, underscoring its role as Sindh's cultural heartbeat.

Tides of History: Burton's Lens on Palla and Rohri

The palla's saga in Rohri is indelibly etched in Richard Francis Burton's Sindh Revisited (1877), a vivid chronicle of his 1840s sojourns. Burton, the polymath explorer, marveled at the fish's allure, dubbing it the Indus-salmon or sable-fish, akin to the Ganges Hilsa. He observed: "You now see the renowned way of fishing the Pallo... this 'piscatory pursuit' more nearly reduces the human form divine into an aquatic beast of prey than any disciple of the gentle craft ever contemplated." Near populous spots like Rohri, dozens of Mohana "amphibii" plied the waters in clay boats, their nets dangling from beris (acacia trees) upstream of Sita, between Sehwan and Sakhar (Sukkur).

Burton's ethnography paints Rohri as part of the infamous "Sukkur, Bukur, Rohri" triad a soldier's curse for its blistering summers, yet a piscatorial paradise in spring. The town, built on nummulitic limestone ridges, hosted flakes of ancient shells hinting at prehistoric marine bounty. Palla, Burton noted, peaked in March rarity to June plenitude, with the "first Pallo of the year always claimed a handsome present from the Amirs." Finest hauls neared Bukkur island, weighing 2-3 pounds and stretching 20 inches rarely venturing beyond to Multan, save in exceptional floods. This seasonal surge fueled Rohri's markets, where the fish's grilled, spiced fillets evoked "potted lobster" or "mackerel" to European palates, though its myriad bones warned of indulgence's perils.

The Mohana Craft: Ingenuity on the Indus

No account captures Rohri's fishing ethos like Burton's depiction of the Mohano at work a tableau of raw daring. Clad in a towering turban and langoti (loincloth), the fisherman salutes the river with Arabic invocations before inverting atop his turnip-shaped clay jar, three feet wide and two high, baked in Hyderabad kilns. Stomach sealing the mouth like a hatch, he frog-kicks upstream to shadowed pools or steamer wakes, where palla lurked against the current. A light bhan-wood pole, lashed in three segments with a terminal fork, bore a deep pouch-net tethered by check-string. Sensing a strike, he'd knife the catch and stow it in the jar, resurfacing to repeat until sated.

This ballet of survival, Burton wryly challenged, defied novices: "Try it one of these days in some shallow place: you and your pot will part company, as sharply and suddenly as your back ever met the Serpentine’s icy floor." Lifelong immersion spared Mohanas rheumatism's grip, their amphibious lineage tracing to converted Hindu aboriginals. In Rohri, such prowess converged at Khosa Khana ghat, a Paba launch point still standing, where small boats ferried nets of patti, tami, or packed earth four feet wide, two high for selective hauls.

The Paba Legacy: Guardians of Rohri's Waters

Rohri's Paba (or Mohana) clan epitomized palla's socioeconomic pulse. Once numbering thousands in riverside "Mubarak Lagga" enclave, their homes now scant amid urban sprawl. Historical sanads (grants) affirm their dominion: from Khwaja Khizr's islet to Bukkur's southern shoals and Pir Sabir, the Indus belly was Paba fiefdom. Seals of Akbar-era notables Ali Akbar Shah, Sadiq Ali Shah, Ghulam Shah, Qutb Ali Shah, Qazis Fath Muhammad, Muhammad Afzal, Jan Muhammad, Abdul Khaliq, and Karm Allah adorned these deeds. Supplementary warrants from Ghulam Shah Kalhoro, Mirs Sohrab and Rustam Khan, and Sukkur's deputy collector bolstered claims near Jan Muhammad Pabi.

Pre-Sukkur Barrage (1932), Pabas epitomized opulence: evenings saw silk-clad men, gold-bangled, strolling bazaars. A grizzled elder's tale evokes British Raj vigils at Mithri Stani's dargah, nights spent with guardians before dawn dives. Their catch fed the venerable "Bazar-e-Mahi Faroshan," where Pabas wholesaled to satins for retail. Folklore elevates palla: fishermen whisper of its devotion to Zinda Pir shrine in Sukkur, halting migrations to honor the saint—black downstream, silver upstream with a crimson head-spot.

 Culinary Soul and Market Might

Palla transcends sustenance; it's Sindhi essence. Burton captured the fervor: Ask a Sindhi for breakfast, dinner, supper "Pallo!" Paradise? "Unlimited Pallo, without the trouble of catching it!" Rohri's tables brimmed with fennel-sauced boils, sand-buried roasts, or pulao, its eggs (aani) a delicacy oozing ghee-like roe from females (anyari) versus males' milky kheero. Varied preparations griddled, barbecued, curried—mirrored community bonds, from Sufi feasts to family rites.

Economically, it anchored Rohri: pre-barrage, floods swelled hauls to tons, picnickers flocking from Karachi. The market pulsed with barter fish for grain, cloth sustaining 75% of Sindh's irrigated acres via Indus canals.

Barrages' Shadow: Migration's Eclipse

Sukkur Barrage's 1932 dawn choked the dream. Diverting flows for 8 million acres, it barred palla beyond, stranding spawns in deltas. Guddu (1955) compounded woes, limiting hauls to Kotri's fringes during monsoons. Studies lament: hilsa migration, once to Multan, now stalls at barrages sans fish ladders, slashing catches 90% and spawning grounds. Kotri's bed, silt-choked, yields scant—five fish a lucky day, per Mallah fishermen. Upstream shortages erode 3.5 million delta acres to sea intrusion, displacing Pabas to menial trades.

Era	Palla Migration Extent	Rohri Catch Volume	Key Impacts	Source
Pre-1932 (Burton Era)	Arabian Sea to Multan	Abundant (March-June peaks near Bukkur)	Paba prosperity; cultural feasts	Burton (1877)
Post-Sukkur Barrage (1932)	Limited to Sukkur-Kotri	Drastic reduction; floods only	Livelihood collapse; market decline	World Bank (2017)
Post-Guddu (1955-Present)	Delta fringes; rare upstream	Sporadic (e.g., 2022 floods)	90% catch drop; illegal netting	Lashari (2022)
Future Projections	Delta-bound without interventions	Minimal without ladders/water releases	Extinction risk; 3.5M acres lost	IUCN (2003)

Revival Whispers: Toward Sustainable Shores

Yet hope glimmers. 2022 floods revived delta feasts, palla shoals signaling nature's resilience. Advocacy from Sindh Fisherfolk Forum to IUCN pushes fish ladders in barrage upgrades, seasonal bans on juvenile nets, and downstream flows (300,000 cusecs annually pre-Tarbela). Rohri's high schools could weave this lore into curricula, fostering eco-tourism at Khosa Khana or Zinda Pir. Palla's myth endures: a saint's steed, Jhulelal's mount refusing Sukkur's turn, embodying fidelity.

In Rohri's shadow, palla whispers of harmony lost and reclaimable. As Burton mused, it's Sindh's "roast-beef and plum-pudding" a thread binding past feasts to future hopes. Conservation marries tradition: ethical nets, river reverence. For Rohri's youth, palla isn't relic but rallying cry for Indus's free flow, Paba pride's resurgence.

Reference

- Burton, R.F. Sindh Revisited (1877). [PDF via Berose.fr]

- Lashari, P. Love, Lore and Livelihoods: Palla in Sindh. Dawn (2022) Link,

- World Bank. Sindh Barrages Improvement Project: Environmental Assessment (2017). [PDF]

- IUCN. Environmental Degradation and Impacts on Livelihoods: Sea Intrusion (2003). [PDF]

- SOCH Outreach Foundation. Palla Fish from the Indus River in Sindh. Google Arts & Culture (2019). [Link]

- Khan, M.H. The Palla, the Shrine, the Catch and the Cook. Dawn (2015). [Link]

- Baloch, W.A. Sindh’s Prized Palla Fish Near Extinction. Express Tribune (2021). [Link]

Post: Sayed Sajjad Hussain Musavi

© 2025 Discover Rohri The Ancient City of Sindh

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British Military Camp North of Rohri City in 1846: A Historical Scene from Sindh

Points in Artical

In 1846, British forces established a major camp north of Rohri city in Sindh to counter Sikh threats during the First Anglo-Sikh War, as described by explorer Richard Francis Burton in his book Scinde or the Unhappy Valley.

The site, now overlaid by modern developments like the Sukkur Barrage road and industrial areas, hosted around 13,000 troops in a vast tent city, blending military precision with the Indus River's strategic landscape.

This event built on the 1843 British conquest of Sindh under Charles Napier, highlighting Rohri's role as a northern frontier hub; while the advance toward Multan was halted short of victory, it shaped colonial control in the region.

For students at Government High School Rohri, this history underscores local heritage, from ancient irrigation canals like Amarkhas Wah (built in the 1700s) to 20th-century landmarks like the 1938 cement factory.

Introduction

Northern Rohri – Site of the 1846 British Military Encampment

Rohri, an ancient and sacred city in Sindh, with a history spanning thousands of years, has often been a witness to historical events. Particularly during the British era, when the British seized control of Sindh, the Rohri region became a center for military operations. Following the conquest of Sindh in 1843, a large British military camp was established north of Rohri city in 1846 due to the threat from the Sikhs. This event is vividly described by the famous British officer and writer Richard Francis Burton in his book Scinde or the Unhappy Valley. This article, aimed especially at students of Government High School Rohri, illuminates this historical event while discussing the transformations in the region, such as the Umrak Canal, Newyard Colony, and the Cement Factory. Our goal is to help students connect with their city's history and learn factual insights.

Historical Background: British Conquest of Sindh

The British conquest of Sindh occurred in 1843 under the leadership of Sir Charles Napier, who defeated the Talpurs in the Battle of Miani. Napier's force, consisting of approximately 2,800 soldiers, spread across various parts of Sindh, including the Rohri area. Although the Battle of Miani took place near Hyderabad, after the victory, military detachments were established in other areas, such as Rohri. This region, located on the banks of the Indus River, was crucial for military supplies and patrols. In 1843, Napier's army also camped in the Rohri area, in the vicinity where modern day lands and constructions stand near the barrage road.

In 1846, when the Sikh army crossed the Sutlej River, the British government sensed the danger of war. The Governor of Sindh ordered the army to be stationed in a plain north of Rohri city. This plain, now the area from Newyard to the Cement Factory, was previously settled on the Umrak Canal with orchards and gardens. This region, irrigated by the Umrak Canal built during the time of Noor Mohammad Kalhoro, was ideal for a military camp.

Description in Burton's Book: Detailed Scene of the Military Camp

Richard Francis Burton, a renowned 19th-century British officer, novelist, and travel writer, provides a lively account of this military camp in his book Scinde or the Unhappy Valley, published in 1851. Burton writes: "In all Sindh, near Rohri, a large army camp was assembled due to the Sikh threat." The camp resembled "a town of glittering white tents, laid out in mathematical streets and squares."

The army numbered 13,000, including British and Asian (Indian) soldiers. Various regiments were present: engineers, artillery, cavalry, infantry, armed and semi-armed detachments, and 800 horsemen. Under the command of an experienced general, this fully armed force included a brigade of three regiments advancing toward Multan.

According to Burton, the camp's scene was "a most picturesque spectacle." Fourteen artillery soldiers patrolled, with separate posts for sentinels and patrols. The army was housed in gardens, some stationed on the Indus banks for patrols. Supply troops accompanied the force. Every night, the trumpet sounded "Strike your tents, and march away," creating a buzz: horses neighing, infantry chattering, camels roaring.

Burton notes in his personal observations that the camp was full of laughter, where even stumbling into a hole elicited loud laughter. However, due to the Governor-General's peaceful policy, the advance was halted, turning the return journey into a "dismal scene." The 600-mile retreat in the heat led to diseases like dysentery and ophthalmia, causing deaths among soldiers and animals.

Historical Transformations of the Region: Before and After

Before 1846, this area, settled on the Umrak Canal, was developed during the era of Noor Mohammad Kalhoro (1698–1755), who ruled as Subahdar of Sindh from 1719 to 1737 under the Mughals. The Kalhora dynasty, ruling Sindh in the 18th century, established an irrigation system through canals and rivers. The Umrak Canal, drawn from the Indus near Rohri, created orchards and settlements, making the area fertile.

During the British era, after 1890, Newyard Colony was constructed under British administration for landowners and officials. This colony, north of Rohri city, still exists today, where former gardens have been replaced by houses and roads. In 1938, the Associated Cement Companies established the Rohri Cement Factory, a symbol of Sindh's industrial progress. This factory, producing 200 tons of cement daily, significantly improved the local economy.

Today, this area, once a military camp, is filled with barrage roads, farmlands, constructions, Newyard Colony, the Cement Factory, and remnants of the Umrak Canal. The Sukkur Barrage, built in 1932, is also nearby, regulating the Indus waters.

Educational Significance: For Government High School Rohri

Students of Government High School Rohri, connected to their city's history, can learn from this event how history brings changes. The 1846 military camp, through Burton's descriptions, informs students about British colonial military life, the region's feudal past, and modern development. In school, discussions on this topic, marking on maps, or studying Burton's book can enhance historical awareness.

However, it should be remembered that British conquest imposed an unnecessary burden on Sindhi culture, leading later to independence movements. This history serves as a lesson from the past for students.

Conclusion

The British military camp north of Rohri in 1846 is not just a military event but an important chapter in Sindh's history. Through Burton's vivid descriptions, Napier's conquest, Kalhora canals, Newyard Colony, and the Cement Factory, this region bears witness to transformations. Rohri's students, by understanding this history, can gain better training for the future.

References:

• Burton, Richard Francis. Scinde or the Unhappy Valley (1851). Documentary PDF: Sani Panhwar.
• Wikipedia: British Conquest of Sindh.
• Wikipedia: Noor Mohammad Kalhoro.
• Rohri.net: Rohri Cement Factory History.
• Imdad Hussain Shah Rizvi Rohri

Northern Rohri Riverside, Historic British Military Outpost

Rohri Cement Factory Area – Site of the 1846 British Military Encampment

Post: Sayed Sajjad Hussain Musavi

© 2025 Discover Rohri The Ancient City of Sindh

Rohri, British Era, Sindh History, Richard Burton

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