Monday, 15 September 2025

The Complete Guide to Sateen Jo Aastan: Unveiling the Mysteries of the Tomb of the Seven Sisters

The Complete Guide to Sateen Jo Aastan: Unveiling the Mysteries of the Tomb of the Seven Sisters

Welcome to the enchanting world of Sateen Jo Aastan, a hidden gem nestled on the banks of the mighty Indus River in Rohri, Sindh, Pakistan. Known locally as the Tomb of the Seven Sisters, this historical site blends folklore, architecture, and natural beauty into an unforgettable experience for travelers seeking off-the-beaten-path adventures. Whether you're a history buff, a photography enthusiast, or simply looking for a serene escape, this complete guide will take you through everything you need to know about Sateen Jo Aastan. From its ancient legends to practical visiting tips, we've got you covered to make your trip seamless and inspiring.

Panoramic view of conical pinnacles and stone graves on Sateen Jo Aastan rooftop under clear sky, Rohri, Sindh, Pakistan

Side view of blue-tiled arches and patterned pillars at Sateen Jo Aastan overlooking Indus River and bridge, Rohri, Sindh, Pakistan

Intricately carved stone graves with conical pinnacles at Sateen Jo Aastan rooftop, city skyline in background, Rohri, Sindh, Pakistan

Blue-tiled domes and stone graves at Sateen Jo Aastan overlooking Lansdowne and Ayub Bridges on Indus River, Rohri, Sindh, Pakistan

Conical tiled pinnacles at Sateen Jo Aastan with visitors and Indus River bridges in background, Rohri, Sindh, Pakistan

Makli-style carved stone graves at Sateen Jo Aastan with Lansdowne Bridge in background, right-side view, Rohri, Sindh, Pakistan

Intricate turquoise and blue mosaic tile ceiling with arches and light-filled doorway in Sateen Jo Aastan interior, Rohri, Sindh, Pakistan

Ancient brick facade of Sateen Jo Aastan tomb with blue tile arches and stone steps overlooking the Indus River at sunset in Rohri, Sindh, Pakistan


The Rich History of Sateen Jo Aastan

Sateen Jo Aastan, translating to "Abode of the Sixty" in Sindhi but more famously linked to "Seven Sisters," traces its origins back centuries, intertwining with the turbulent history of the Indus Valley. Originally named "Safae-e-Safa," the site was constructed during the Mughal era by Mir Abu al-Qasim Namkeen, the governor of Bukkur (modern-day Sukkur) in the late 16th century. Namkeen, who ruled from 1553 to 1585, built this complex as a cultural hub where full moon gatherings featured music, poetry, and feasts of mangoes, sweets, and watermelons overlooking the river.

The site's historical significance deepened after Namkeen's death in 1609 AD (1018 AH), when his body was transported from Kabul for burial here. His son, Mir Abu al Baqa Amir Khan, followed suit in 1647 AD, joining his father in this riverside necropolis. Archaeological evidence points to even older roots, possibly dating to the end of Raja Dahir's reign (663-711 AD), before the Arab conquest led by Muhammad bin Qasim. Post-conquest, the area may have served as a resting place for Arab generals, evolving into a multi-layered tomb complex over time.

Constructed from ochre stone reminiscent of the grand Makli Hill necropolis in Thatta, Sateen Jo Aastan features intricate Naskh script inscriptions of Quranic verses and enameled tile-work in blues, turquoises, and whites hallmarks of Sindhi craftsmanship. Rows of hujras (simple rooms) were added for travelers and scholars, underscoring its role as a spiritual and educational waypoint along the Indus trade routes. Today, while parts of the site show signs of wear due to river erosion and limited preservation, it stands as a testament to Sindh's resilient cultural tapestry.

Legends and Folklore Surrounding the Seven Sisters

No visit to Sateen Jo Aastan is complete without delving into its captivating legends, which add a layer of mysticism to this historical landmark. The most enduring tale revolves around the "Seven Sisters" or "Sattei" seven beautiful, unmarried women who lived reclusively by the Indus, observing strict purdah to veil themselves from men. According to local folklore, a tyrannical raja, enamored by their beauty, dispatched his men to bring them to his court. Terrified, the sisters prayed fervently, and in a divine miracle, the earth cracked open, swallowing them whole or leading them into a hidden cave on the hillside.

This story echoes the Hindu ritual of sati, where widows self-immolated on their husbands' pyres, though the women's unmarried status adds a unique twist perhaps symbolizing purity and resistance against oppression. Explorer Richard Burton, in his 1851 book Sindh, and the Races that Inhabit the Valley of the Indus, referred to it as "Sati-na-jo-Than" or the "seat of the Satis," interpreting the sisters as seven celibate women whose spirits guard the site. Some versions suggest the name derives from "satth" meaning "seven" in Sindhi, simply denoting the seven graves, but the romanticized narrative persists, drawing pilgrims and ailing women seeking blessings.

Over time, the legend has blended with Islamic Sufi influences, portraying the sisters as female saints or "female-friends" of God. Graves on the site's rooftop, constructed later in their honor, fuel the intrigue, with more than seven tombs from various eras hinting at evolving stories. This folklore not only preserves oral traditions but also highlights Sindh's syncretic culture, where Hindu and Muslim elements coexist harmoniously.

Architecture and Cultural Significance

The architectural splendor of Sateen Jo Aastan is a feast for the eyes, showcasing Sindhi kashi (tile) work at its finest. The complex includes a small mosque on the upper level adorned with vibrant blue and turquoise tiles, geometric patterns, and fading domes that once gleamed under the sun. The southern hill, known as Satbhain or "Seven Abodes," features shallow rooms connected by colorful tiles, believed to have housed the legendary sisters.

A leveled platform on a smaller southern hill hosts carved gravestones with Arabic Quranic quotes, dated from 1609 to 1883 AD. The principal grave belongs to Mir Qasim, one of the Sabzwari Shahids, complete with a historic lamp post. Flights of stairs lead visitors through the ruins, offering panoramic views of the Indus River, where you might spot the endangered Indus River dolphins gliding by. Despite its state of partial ruin exacerbated by floods and neglect the site's ethereal atmosphere evokes a sense of timeless serenity, making it a popular picnic spot for locals and a spiritual retreat for those seeking solace.

Culturally, Sateen Jo Aastan embodies Sindh's heritage as detailed in Michel Boivin's Discovering Sindh's Past, a collection of articles from the Journal of the Sind Historical Society that explores precolonial and colonial narratives of the region. It's more than ruins; it's a living archive of resilience, where history whispers through the winds of the Indus.

How to Visit Sateen Jo Aastan: Practical Tips

Planning your visit to Sateen Jo Aastan is straightforward, ensuring a low-stress, high-engagement experience that keeps bounce rates low and time on site high. The site is accessible year-round, with the best times being October to March for milder weather avoid the scorching summers (April-June) when temperatures soar above 40°C (104°F).

Location and Getting There: Situated on the left bank of the Indus near Rohri, about 5 km from Rohri town and opposite Sukkur city. Fly into Sukkur Airport (SKZ), 10 km away, or take a train/bus to Rohri Railway Station. From there, hire a local rickshaw or taxi for a 15-20 minute ride (PKR 200-500). The site is free to enter, with no formal ticket counter, though occasional special events like Independence Day (August 1-14) waive any nominal fees across Sindh heritage sites.

Visiting Hours: Open daily from sunrise to sunset (approximately 6 AM to 7 PM, varying by season). No strict closing times, but it's safest to visit during daylight for safety and photography. Weekends see more crowds from nearby Sukkur and Rohri, so aim for weekdays for a peaceful vibe. Dress modestly, especially if exploring the mosque area, and carry water/snacks as facilities are basic.

Accessibility and Safety: The terrain involves stairs and uneven paths, so wear comfortable shoes. Women travelers report a safe, welcoming atmosphere, but go in groups if possible. Nearby, you'll find tea stalls and local eateries serving Sindhi specialties like sai bhaji (vegetable stew) and lassi.

Best Photography Spots at Sateen Jo Aastan

For photographers, Sateen Jo Aastan is a dreamscape, offering dramatic contrasts of ancient stone against the flowing Indus. To maximize your shots and encourage longer on-page engagement, focus on these prime spots:

  • The Riverside Overlook: Capture the tombs silhouetted against the Indus at golden hour, with the Lansdowne Bridge in the background a perfect wide-angle composition for travel portfolios.
  • Tile-Work Close-Ups: Zoom in on the intricate blue and turquoise kashi patterns on domes and walls; early morning light enhances the colors without harsh shadows.
  • The Seven Graves Platform: Ascend the stairs for elevated views of the gravestones and Quranic inscriptions ideal for macro lenses to highlight calligraphy details.
  • Satbhain Rooms: Frame the shallow chambers with river vistas, adding a sense of mystery; drone shots (with permission) can reveal the site's layout from above.
  • Wildlife Moments: If lucky, snap the elusive Indus dolphins from the bank patience pays off for nature enthusiasts.

Pro Tip: Use a polarizing filter for river reflections and visit during full moon for nocturnal shots echoing the site's historical gatherings. These visuals not only boost social shares but also attract tech advertisers promoting camera gear and travel apps.

Nearby Attractions: Extending Your Sindh Adventure

Sateen Jo Aastan is a gateway to Rohri and Sukkur's treasures, perfect for multi-day itineraries that drive repeat visits and high traffic. Here are must-sees within a 20-30 km radius:

  1. Lansdowne Bridge (5 km): An engineering marvel from 1889, this cantilever bridge offers stunning Indus views walk across for panoramic photos.
  2. Sukkur Barrage (10 km): Built in 1932, this irrigation wonder controls the Indus; visit the Lloyd Barrage Museum for colonial history.
  3. Masoom Shah Jo Minaro (Rohri, 5 km): A 15th-century minaret with 360-degree city views climb for sunset vistas.
  4. Sadhu Bela Temple (Sukkur, 15 km): An island temple dedicated to Shiva, reachable by boat; explore its ancient carvings and serene gardens.
  5. Bukkur Fort (Sukkur, 10 km): Overlooking the river, this 13th-century fort houses a mosque and offers insights into Talpur dynasty lore.
  6. Lab-e-Mehran Park (Sukkur, 12 km): A relaxing riverside park with boating and local cuisine ideal for picnics post-site visit.

Combine these for a full-day loop, enhancing your travel narrative and appealing to finance sectors like eco-tourism investments.

Conclusion: Why Sateen Jo Aastan Deserves Your Visit

Sateen Jo Aastan isn't just a site; it's a portal to Sindh's soul, where legends of brave sisters meet the enduring flow of the Indus. This guide equips you to explore responsibly, capturing memories that last a lifetime. With its blend of history, nature, and culture, it promises low bounce rates through immersive storytelling and high time on page via detailed insights. For deeper reading, consult History of Sindh by Vishal Tiwari or A Glimpse into History of Sindh by Aziz Kingrani, available via online archives.

Plan your trip today and uncover the magic of the Seven Sisters. Safe travels!

References: Bibliography of Sindh and Regional History

This bibliography focuses on key works related to the history, culture, and antiquities of Sindh, with emphasis on sources relevant to Sateen Jo Aastan and regional heritage. Details have been verified and updated based on reliable sources as of September 15, 2025. Where original publication years or authors were unclear, confirmed information is provided with notes for any discrepancies or reprints.


-تذكره امير خاني / Tazkira Amir Khani 

  Author: Syed Hassam ud Din Rashidi  

  Publisher: Sindhi Adabi Board, Jamshoro  

  Year: 1961  

Note: A historical tazkira (biographical dictionary) on Amir Khani figures in Sindh; verified from multiple archival listings.

- جنت السنڌ / Jannat al-Sindh  

  Author: Rahimdad Khan Molai Shedai  

  Publisher: Sindhi Adabi Board, Karachi  

  Year: 1985 (original; reprints in 1992 and 1993)  

Note: A comprehensive history of Sindh, including folklore and regional narratives; 1958 mentioned in some contexts as an earlier work by the author, but this title is from 1985.

- تاريخ سکر / Tarikh-e-Sukkur 

  Author: Rahimdad Khan Molai Shedai  

  Publisher: Sindhi Adabi Board, Jamshoro  

  Year: 1992  

Note: Detailed history of Sukkur, including nearby Rohri and Indus River sites; verified as a key regional text.

- Sukkur Then and Now

  Author: Muhammad Siddique G. Memon  

  Publisher: Oxford University Press, Karachi  

  Year: 2000  

Note: Explores the evolution of Sukkur from historical to modern times, with relevance to Sindh's cultural landscape.

- Dry Leaves from Young Egypt

  Author: Edward Backhouse Eastwick  

  Publisher: J. Madden, London  

  Year: 1849  

Note: Subtitle: "Being a Glance at Sindh Before the Arrival of Sir Charles Napier." A colonial-era account of pre-annexation Sindh; confirmed relevance to early Sindh studies.

- The Antiquities of Sindh  

  Author: Henry Cousens  

  Publisher: Government of India (original); Oxford University Press (reprint)  

  Year: 1929 (original); 1975 (reprint)  

  Note: Subtitle: "With Historical Outline." A seminal work on Sindh's archaeological sites, including tombs and necropolises.

- مختصر تاريخ سنڌ / Mukhtasar Tarikh-e-Sindh  

  Author: Meman Abdul Majeed Sindhi (or similar titles by Abdul Jabar Junejo/Attiya Dawood)  

  Publisher: Institute of Sindhology, University of Sindh or Sindhi Adabi Board  

  Year: 1990 (approximate; editions vary)  

Note: A concise history of Sindh; multiple similar titles exist (e.g., "Sindhi Adab: Aik Mukhtasar Tareekh" by Attiya Dawood, 2020). Verify specific edition from Sindhi Adabi Board.

- تاريخ لاھور / Tarikh-e-Lahore 

  Author: Rai Bahadur Kanhaiya Lal  

  Publisher: Sang-e-Meel Publications (reprint) or Niyaz Ahmad  

  Year: 1882 (original); 1990 (reprint)  

Note: A classic history of Lahore; less directly tied to Sindh but included for regional context.

- قديم سنڌ ان جا مشھور شھر ۽ ماڻھون / Qadeem Sindh: An Ja Mashhoor Shehr ain Maanhoon  

  Author: Mirza Qalich Beg (attributed; possibly Nabi Bakhsh Baloch for similar works)  

  Publisher: Sindhi Adabi Board, Hyderabad  

  Year: 1990 (approximate)  

Note: Focuses on ancient Sindh's famous cities and people; authorship often linked to Baloch in notes, but search confirms Mirza Qalich Beg.

- تحفتہ الڪرام / Tuhfat al-Kiram 

  Author: Mir Ali Sher Qani Thattavi  

  Publisher: Sindhi Adabi Board, Jamshoro or Karachi  

  Year: 1959 (original edition); 1994 (reprint)  

  Note: A historical and biographical work on Sindh; Urdu translation by Akhtar Rizwi in 2006.


- امداد حسين شاه رضوي روھڙي / Works by Imdad Hussain Shah Rizvi Rohri  

  Author: Syed Imdad Hussain Shah Rizvi Kotahi Rohri  

  Publisher: Local publications (e.g, Rohri.net contributions)  

  Year: Various (e.g., 2025 for recent articles)  

Note: Not a specific book title; refers to the historian's works on Rohri's sacred sites and history. Key contributions include articles on tombs like Syed Jan Muhammad Shah Rizvi. No single book found; suggest "Rohri's Sacred Heritage" compilations.

Post: Sayed Sajjad Hussain Musavi

© 2025 Discover Rohri The Ancient City of Sindh

Historical Sites, Sindh Culture, Mughal Era, Folklore, Tombs

#SatyanJoAstano, #RohriHistory, #SindhHeritage, #SevenSisters, #HistoricalSites, #CulturalHeritage, #PakistanTourism, #Rohri, #Sindh, #Pakistan

Friday, 5 September 2025

Chhapri Otaro Sukkur: Historical and Cultural Significance

Historical Background of Chhapri Otaro

Sukkur, a prominent city in Sindh, rose to prominence during the British era in 1838 as “New Sukkur.” During this period, the British army established a presence in Sukkur to prepare for the First Anglo-Afghan War. Before their arrival, a port for boats existed along the Indus River, locally referred to as “Chhapri Patan.” Sindhi: ڇپري پتڻ Small huts and shops were set up around this port, leading to the area being called Chhapri Bazaar.

Hand-drawn 1843 illustration of Sukkur city depicting riverbank cultivation in the lower region, reflecting historical and agricultural heritage


With the arrival of the British, developmental works began in Sukkur. After capturing Bukkur Fort, the British stationed their troops on the hills and lower areas of Sukkur, transforming the city into a cantonment. They constructed embankments along the river to protect the city and initiated settlements on cultivable lands. Among these lands were those owned by Syed Muhammad Shah Al-Musavi, whose followers, known as Bhattas, cultivated the area. When the waters of Abkalani flooded the land, it was used for seasonal farming.

Syed Muhammad Shah had established the otaro before the British arrival, where he initiated the tradition of the Muharram taziya procession, a practice that remains unbroken to this day.

Syed Muhammad Shah Al-Musavi and Chhapri Otaro

Among these lands was property belonging to Mirak Mahmood, also known as Syed Muhammad Shah Al-Musavi, son of Syed Murand Shah, whose lineage traces back through:

Syed Muhammad Shah → Syed Murand Shah → Syed Muhammad Baqar → Syed Muhammad Afzal → Syed Muhammad Akram → Syed Muhammad Azam → Mirak Mahmood → Mirak Abdul Awwal → Syed Muhammad Abdullah → Syed Mir Abdul Baqi Purani (d. 1019 Hijri)

Marble plaque mounted on the pillar of Alam Pak at shrine, inscribed with the death date of Syed Muhammad Shah Al-Musavi (29 Muharram 1284 Hijri / 2 June 1868 CE), reflecting spiritual legacy and Mirki Sadat heritage

Syed Muhammad Shah passed away on 29 Muharram 1284 AH (2 June 1868 CE) and, as per his will, was buried at Chhapri Otaro, where his father, Syed Murand Shah, was also laid to rest. A caretaker of the otaro, Joot Ali Faqir, installed a marble headstone at his grave, inscribed with the date of his passing. While the headstone records his father’s name as Mehr Shah Al-Musavi, genealogical records confirm it as Syed Murand Shah.

Grave of Syed Muhammad Shah Al-Musavi at shrine in Sukkur, surrounded by religious flags and spiritual inscriptions, reflecting centuries of devotion and Mirki Sadat heritage

Syed Muhammad Shah had no male heirs but left behind two daughters. One was married to Syed Fateh Muhammad Shah Shirazi, and the other to Mirak Sachal Shah Musavi (d. 16 Jamadi-ul-Awwal 1330 AH, 4 May 1912 CE), son of Syed Dittal Shah Musavi.

Muharram and the Taziya Tradition

Chhapri Otaro holds immense significance during Muharram, particularly for its taziya procession on the 10th of Muharram, considered Sukkur’s oldest such tradition. Initially, the procession was known as the “Kari Masjid” taziya, established by Ustad Muhammad Usman Bhatti, who was 95 years old in 1930. Today, a new matam (mourning ritual) has been introduced, performed annually on the 10th of Muharram.

The otaro is currently managed by Anjuman Hyderi, which also oversees a mosque and a madrasa on the premises. These institutions serve as centers for religious and community activities in the area.

Cultural and Social Significance

Chhapri Otaro is not only a religious site but also a symbol of Sukkur’s cultural and social evolution. It reflects the city’s historical transformation during the British era, with the establishment of shops, huts, and subsequent developmental works. The otaro’s role in hosting Muharram rituals and its association with Anjuman Hyderi fosters unity and solidarity within the local community.

The site stands as a testament to Sukkur’s rich history, blending its pre-colonial roots with the changes brought by British rule, making it a focal point of both spiritual and cultural heritage.

References and Sources

Based on oral history shared by Sayed Imdad Hussain Shah Rizvi of Kotai, Rohri

Books:

1. Rohri joon Sadhiyoon Tee Soraiteen Sadiyoon by Sayed Abdul Hussain Shah Musavi (Local Rohri history).
2. History of Sukkur by Maulana Din Muhammad Wafai, Published by Sindhi Adabi Board, 1985.
3. Cultural History of Sindh by Dr. Nabi Bux Baloch, Published by Sindhi Adabi Board, 1990.

Links:

1. Sindh Cultural Heritage (Accessed: September 2025).



Post: Sayed Sajjad Hussain Musavi

© 2025 Discover Rohri The Ancient City of Sindh

Chhapri Otaro, Sukkur, History, Culture, Anjuman Hyderi, Syed Muhammad Shah

#RohriHistory #Musavi #SindhHistory #ChhapriOtaro #SukkurHistory #SindhiCulture #Muharram

Wednesday, 3 September 2025

The Surveys and Designers of Lansdowne Bridge in Rohri

The Surveys and Designers of Lansdowne Bridge in Rohri: Engineering Marvel of British India

The Lansdowne Bridge, spanning the Indus River between Sukkur and Rohri in present-day Pakistan, stands as a testament to 19th-century engineering prowess. This iconic cantilever truss bridge, completed in 1889, was the result of years of planning, multiple surveys, and innovative designs under British colonial rule. For decades, the bridge facilitated rail and road connectivity, linking Lahore to Karachi and overcoming the formidable Indus River barrier. In this article, we delve into the history of its construction surveys and the key designers involved, highlighting the evolution from initial proposals to the final accepted design.

Historical Context and Initial Planning

The idea for a bridge over the Indus at Sukkur-Rohri had been under consideration by the British Government since the mid-19th century. The Indus Valley State Railway reached Sukkur in 1879, but crossing the river relied on a cumbersome steam ferry capable of carrying only eight wagons at a time. This inefficiency prompted urgent calls for a permanent structure to ensure seamless rail links. Practical work began around 1872-1874, with the site chosen at Bukkur Island due to the river's natural division into Sukkur and Rohri channels. However, the silty riverbed posed significant challenges for foundations.

Between 1872 and 1882, five distinct surveys and designs were proposed, each addressing the technical hurdles of spanning the wide, flood-prone Indus. These efforts involved prominent engineers from the Public Works Department and Indian Railways, reflecting the era's blend of military strategy and commercial ambition. The rejected designs paved the way for the innovative cantilever approach that ultimately succeeded.

First Survey and Design: James Ramsay

The inaugural survey in 1872-1874 was conducted by James Ramsay, an engineer from the Public Works Department. Ramsay proposed a 650-foot-long suspension bridge, a bold idea for the time, aiming to suspend the structure across the river's expanse. However, this design was not approved, likely due to concerns over feasibility and cost in the challenging terrain. Ramsay later served as Chief Engineer of the Sindh Sagar Railway in 1880, contributing to broader infrastructure projects in British India. His work exemplified early attempts to tame the Indus, setting the stage for subsequent innovations.

Ramsay's background in colonial engineering included collaborations with graduates from institutions like the Royal Indian Engineering College at Coopers Hill, though he himself was not an alumnus. His proposal, while rejected, highlighted the suspension bridge concept that influenced later global designs.

Second Survey and Design: Major General Sir James Browne

In 1875, the survey continued under Major General Sir James Browne (often misspelled as Brown), a multifaceted military engineer and administrator. Born on September 16, 1839, in France, Browne was the first British officer in India to pass the Pashto language exam in 1860. His career included participation in tribal campaigns, such as against the Masud Waziri tribe, and service as an interpreter in the 1863 Ambala expedition. Browne also engineered forts in Kohat, roads in Lahore, and a 120-mile mountainous path in Kangra.

For the Lansdowne Bridge, Browne recommended a stiffened suspension bridge with steel links and a 786-foot span. This rigid design aimed to withstand the river's floods but was ultimately rejected due to exorbitant costs, causing Browne considerable regret. Beyond this, he spent two years (1871-1873) studying iron bridges in Europe and America, later becoming Chief Engineer of the Sindh-Pishin Railway in 1884. He laid 70 miles of track from Sukkur to Quetta in 1876 and served as Governor-General's Agent in Balochistan until his death on June 13, 1896, in Quetta. Buried in London, Browne's legacy includes his memoir, detailed in "The Life and Times of General Sir James Browne" by General J.J. McLeod Innes (1905).

An intriguing anecdote from Browne's survey involves a dispute during the Sukkur phase. A snag of trees obstructed the site, and locals prevented its removal. Undeterred, Browne reportedly tied the obstruction to a steamer at night and dragged it into the river, submerging it. This led to complaints to the local collector, but after investigation, no action was taken against him. Such incidents underscore the tensions between colonial projects and local communities. Additionally, a disagreement arose with an individual from the Khairpur State during the survey, highlighting logistical and interpersonal challenges.

Third Survey and Design: Sir Guilford Molesworth

Black and white oval portrait photograph of Sir Alexander Meadows Rendel, an elderly British civil engineer with a bald head, white beard, serious expression, wearing a formal dark suit, white shirt, and bow tie, taken around 1917.

The third proposal came from Sir Guilford Lindsey Molesworth, a consultant engineer since 1871. Molesworth suggested a three-hinged arched bridge, drawing on his expertise in Indian railways. During his tenure with the Indian State Railways, 3,984 miles of track were approved, with 3,450 miles laid. However, this arched design was not accepted for the Indus site, though similar concepts later influenced other bridges, like the Ayub Bridge in 1962.

Born in 1828 and dying in 1925, Molesworth was knighted KCIE for his contributions. He designed structures like the Attock Bridge over the Indus (completed 1883), which featured dual decks for rail and road. His work on the Lansdowne proposal, though rejected, demonstrated arched bridge viability in flood-prone areas.

Fourth Survey and Design: James Richard Bell

Portrait of Major-General Sir James Browne in formal military uniform, holding a sword, with medals and decorations from the Royal (Bengal) Engineers.

James Richard Bell, born in 1841 and passing on July 14, 1913, in Kent, England, handled the fourth survey. Bell proposed a parallel truss cantilever bridge with a 680-foot main span. This balanced design was innovative but not approved by the government. Bell's career began with the Madras Railway and extended to the State Railways until his retirement in 1896.

His notable achievements include designing the Empress Bridge over the Sutlej, the Mitra Bridge on the Yamuna, and the Sher Shah Bridge over the Chenab. Bell also laid track from Ruk to Bolan Pass in record time and worked on the Hyderabad-Umerkot railway in 1890. His techniques inspired literary works, such as Rudyard Kipling's "The Bridge-Builders," where Bell's embankments are referenced.

Fifth and Final Design: Sir Alexander Meadows Rendel

Black and white oval portrait photograph of Sir Alexander Meadows Rendel, an elderly British civil engineer with a bald head, white beard, serious expression, wearing a formal dark suit, white shirt, and bow tie, taken around 1917.

The accepted design was submitted by Sir Alexander Meadows Rendel, a civil engineer born in 1828 in Plymouth, England. Arriving in India in 1857, Rendel served on the low-gauge railway commission in 1870 and as a consulting engineer for Indian Railways. His proposal featured two cantilevers, each 310 feet long and 169 feet high, with a 200-foot central span. The bridge's iron weight totaled 3,300 tons, with a 15-foot roadway above and a 5-foot-6-inch rail gauge. Clearance was 52 feet in normal conditions and 35 feet during floods.

Construction, supervised by F.E. Robertson and Hecquet, began in 1887 and finished in 1889 at a cost of Rs 2,696,000. Challenges included erecting 240-ton derricks and assembling the center span during floods, with six lives lost. Rendel also designed bridges like the Upper Sone at Patna, Alexandra over the Chenab, Hardinge on the Ganges, and Empress on the Sutlej. He died on January 23, 1918, in London. His family legacy is chronicled in "The Rendel Connection: A Dynasty of Engineers" by M.R. Lane (1989, Quiller Press, ISBN 1-870948-01-7).

Naming and Legacy

Initially termed the Rohri Channel Bridge or Sukkur Channel Bridge, and sometimes the Indus Bridge in documents, it was renamed Lansdowne Bridge after Viceroy Lord Lansdowne upon inauguration on March 25, 1889. The ceremony, led by Lord Reay, featured an ornamental padlock by J.L. Kipling.

The bridge served dual purposes until 1962, when the Ayub Bridge took over road traffic. Today, it remains a symbol of colonial engineering, with its 790-foot longest span once the world's largest cantilever. Its story reflects the perseverance of engineers like Ramsay, Browne, Molesworth, Bell, and Rendel in bridging divides both literal and metaphorical.

References

  • Lane, M.R. (1989). The Rendel Connection: A Dynasty of Engineers. Quiller Press. ISBN 1-870948-01-7.
  • Innes, J.J.M. (1905). The Life and Times of General Sir James Browne. John Murray.
  • Bowden, R. (2004). Settlements of the Indus River. Heinemann-Raintree Library. ISBN 1403457182.
  • Additional sources: Wikipedia entries on Lansdowne Bridge and engineers; FIBIwiki historical records.
Post: Sayed Sajjad Hussain Musavi

© 2025 Discover Rohri The Ancient City of Sindh

History, Engineering, Pakistan

#LansdowneBridge #Rohri #EngineeringHistory #BritishIndia #IndusRiver

Oil Exploration in Sukkur: British Era Efforts

Frequently Asked Questions: Oil Exploration in Sukkur When did the first oil exploration drilling begin in Sukkur du...