Navigating Pollution: Rohri’s Struggle for Clean Air and Water

MPollution in Rohri, Sukkur, Sindh, Pakistan: A Tale of Urban and Rural Challenges

Introduction

Rohri, a historic city nestled along the banks of the mighty Indus River, faces a dual battle against pollution. As part of the Sukkur district in Sindh, Pakistan, Rohri grapples with environmental issues that impact both its urban and rural communities. Let's delve into the complexities of pollution in this region.

Urban vs. Rural: A Dichotomy

Urban Areas

1. Karachi – The City of Lights:

Characteristics: Known for its mesmerizing nighttime glow and pristine shoreline, Karachi is a melting pot of cultures, languages, and traditions.

 Language Diversity:While most people speak Sindhi, Seraiki, Thari, and Balochi in rural districts, urban Karachi boasts a linguistic tapestry that includes Urdu, Punjabi, and Pashto.

  Challenges: Despite its vibrancy, Karachi faces significant environmental hurdles. Air pollution, inadequate healthcare facilities, and traffic congestion are pressing concerns.

2. Hyderabad and Khairpur:

 Part of Sindh Urban: These regions exhibit better access to goods, services, and resources. They are hubs of commerce, education, and infrastructure development.

Rural Areas

1. Sindh Rural Districts:

  Badin, Sanghar, Tharparker, and Dadu: These districts epitomize the challenges faced by rural Sindh.

   Resource Deficit: Inadequate medical facilities, high poverty rates, and unemployment plague these areas.

   Healthcare Struggles: Millions of rural dwellers battle health issues, including Hepatitis C and measles. Infant mortality remains a grim reality.

   Education and Development: While some progress has been made in terms of schools, libraries, and roads, development indicators remain stubbornly low.

2. Air Quality in Rohri:

   Unhealthy Air:  Rohri's Air Quality Index (AQI) often registers as unhealthy³. Factors like industrial emissions, vehicular pollution, and dust contribute to this alarming situation.

   Water Quality: Groundwater and surface water quality also warrant attention. Monitoring total coliform, E. coli, and heterotrophic plate count (HPC) levels is crucial⁴.

The Road Ahead

1. Collaboration: Addressing pollution requires collective efforts. Government agencies, NGOs, and citizens must collaborate to improve air and water quality.

2. Sustainable Practices:  Encouraging sustainable practices, promoting green spaces, and investing in clean energy are essential steps.

3. Awareness Campaigns: Educating the public about pollution's impact and advocating for responsible behavior can drive positive change.

References:

Sindh Rural Vs Sindh Urban - Major Differences

Why pollution is so high in Pakistan's cities

Rohri Air Quality Index (AQI) and Pakistan Air Pollution

Drinking water quality in Rohri City, Sindh, Pakistan

#Pollution, #Environment, #Sustainability, #CleanAir, #WaterQuality, #ClimateChange, #EcoFriendly, #GreenLiving, #Conservation, #HealthAndEnvironment

Journey Through Pakistan's Railway: Rohri Train Station

 

Embark on a captivating journey through Pakistan's railway as we explore the historic Rohri Train Station and its significance in the country's transportation system.

A Brief History of Rohri Train Station

Rohri Train Station, located in Rohri, Pakistan, has a rich history that dates back to its establishment in the late 19th century. It was built during the British Raj and served as an important stop on the Indus Valley Railway, connecting Karachi with the northern regions of British India.

The station played a vital role in facilitating trade and transportation between different parts of the country. Over the years, it has witnessed the transformation of Pakistan's railway system and has become an integral part of the country's transportation infrastructure.

Unique Architectural Wonders at Rohri Train Station

Rohri Train Station is known for its unique architectural wonders that reflect a blend of British colonial and local architectural styles. The station building features intricate designs, grand arches, and large windows that allow natural light to illuminate the interior.

One of the notable architectural elements is the clock tower, which stands tall and serves as a symbol of the station's historical importance. The station's platform is spacious and well-maintained, providing a comfortable waiting area for passengers.

Connecting Pakistan: Routes from Rohri Train Station

Rohri Train Station serves as a major hub, connecting various cities and regions across Pakistan through its extensive railway network. It is a crucial link between Karachi, the country's largest city and economic hub, and other important cities such as Lahore, Islamabad, and Peshawar.

The station offers multiple train routes that cater to both passenger and freight transportation needs. These routes provide convenient access to different parts of the country, allowing people to travel and transport goods efficiently.

Cultural Significance of Rohri Train Station

Rohri Train Station holds great cultural significance for the people of Pakistan. It has witnessed the passage of time and the changing dynamics of the country. Many people have fond memories associated with the station, as it has been a witness to countless journeys, reunions, and farewells.

The station also serves as a meeting point for people from diverse backgrounds, reflecting the cultural diversity of Pakistan. It is a place where people from different regions come together, fostering social interactions and cultural exchange.

Future Development Plans for Rohri Train Station

In order to meet the growing demands of the modern era, there are plans for future development and improvement of Rohri Train Station. These plans include the expansion of the station's facilities to accommodate increasing passenger and freight traffic.

Additionally, efforts are being made to enhance the overall infrastructure and services at the station, ensuring a seamless travel experience for passengers. The aim is to make Rohri Train Station a modern transportation hub that meets international standards and contributes to the development of the region.

• Rohri Train Station: A Historic and Cultural Landmark of Pakistan
• Exploring the Wonders of Rohri Train Station: Pakistan’s Railway Heritage
• How Rohri Train Station Connects Pakistan’s Past, Present, and Future
• The Story of Rohri Train Station: A Journey Through Pakistan’s Railway History
• Rohri Train Station: A Symbol of Pakistan’s Transportation Development

Pakistan Railways Website: 

https://pakrail.gov.pk/

Sindh government demands explanation for CPEC motorway project cancellation

In a letter to caretaker Prime Minister Anwar-ul-Haq Kakar, caretaker chief minister Sindh Maqbool Baqir expressed his displeasure over the removal of Karachi-Hyderabad and Sukkur Motorway from the CPEC project by the federal government. He stated that no ‘specific reason’ was given for the decision to exclude the vital road link from the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC). He also pointed out that the Peshawar-Karachi Motorway project had completed all its major roads, except for the crucial M-Six segment from Hyderabad to Sukkur Abtik. He said that the lack of progress and execution on the ground was worrisome and the omission of the Karachi-Hyderabad and Sukkur Motorways added to the concerns

• CPEC Motorway Project: Sindh CM’s Letter to PM
• Sindh Government’s Grievances over CPEC Exclusion
• How CPEC Road Link Removal Affects Sindh’s Development
• CPEC Controversy: Sindh CM Protests Federal Decision
• Sindh CM Demands Explanation for CPEC Motorway Cancellation

#CPECMotorway
#SindhCM
#CPECControversy
#SindhDevelopment
#CPECRoadLink

The Rise and Fall of Rohri Cement Factory: A Historical Case Study

Rohri Cement Factory

      A Historical Industrial Site in Sindh Rohri Cement Factory is one of the oldest and largest cement plants in Pakistan. Located in Rohri, a city in the Sukkur District of Sindh Province, the factory was established in 1938 by Associated Cement Companies, a Bombay-based company that owned several cement plants in India and Pakistan.

Cement Factory Rohri’s 

Rohri’s Cement Factory 

The factory was designed and supplied by F.L. Smith, a Danish engineering company that specialized in cement production equipment¹. The factory had a capacity of producing 200 tons of cement per day, using the wet process method¹. The factory used locally available limestone, clay, and gypsum as raw materials, and coal as fuel.

     The factory played a significant role in the industrial development of the region, as well as the construction of various infrastructure projects in Pakistan. The factory supplied cement for the Sukkur Barrage, the Kotri Barrage, the Mangla Dam, the Tarbela Dam, and the Karachi Nuclear Power Plant, among others.

     The factory also provided employment and livelihood opportunities for thousands of workers and their families. The factory had its own residential colony, hospital, school, mosque, and recreational facilities for its staff and workers². The factory also supported various social and cultural activities in the area, such as sports, festivals, and community service.

     However, the factory faced several challenges and difficulties over the years, such as political instability, labor unrest, environmental issues, and technological obsolescence. The factory gradually lost its competitiveness and profitability, as newer and more efficient cement plants emerged in the market³. The factory also suffered from frequent breakdowns, power outages, and maintenance problems.

In 1996, the factory was privatised and sold to a consortium of local investors, who renamed it as Rohri Cement (Private) Limited. The new owners tried to revive the factory by investing in modernisation and expansion projects, but they failed to achieve the desired results. The factory eventually ceased its operations in 2008, and was declared as a sick industrial unit by the government.

      Today , the factory stands as a silent witness to the history and heritage of the cement industry in Pakistan. The factory is still owned by Rohri Cement (Private) Limited, but it is not operational and is in a state of decay.The factory's buildings, machinery, and equipment are rusting and deteriorating, and some of them have been vandalised or stolen.

     The factory's fate is uncertain, as there are no clear plans or proposals for its preservation or restoration. Some of the factory's former employees and local residents have expressed their concerns and hopes for the factory's future, and have urged the authorities and the owners to take some action to save the factory from further damage and destruction.

     The factory is not only a valuable industrial asset, but also a cultural and historical landmark that deserves to be protected and conserved. The factory represents the legacy and contribution of the cement industry to the development and progress of Pakistan, as well as the memories and experiences of the people who worked and lived there. The factory is a part of the identity and heritage of Rohri, Sukkur, and Sindh, and it should be recognised and respected as such.

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• Rohri Cement Factory
• Historical Industrial Site
• Cement Industry in Pakistan
• Industrial Heritage and Preservation
• Challenges and Opportunities of Reviving Sick Industrial Units

Rohri Cement Factory is an old and large cement plant in Pakistan that was established in 1938 by a Bombay-based company. The factory used the wet process method to produce cement, and supplied cement for various infrastructure projects in Pakistan. The factory also had its own residential colony and social facilities for its workers and staff. However, the factory faced many problems and challenges, and stopped its operations in 2008. The factory is now in a state of decay and neglect, and its future is uncertain

Rohri Cement Private Limited

Head Office: 405, 4th Floor, Panorama Centre, Building No.2, Doctor Plaza, Raja Ghazanfar Ali Khan Road, Saddar -Karachi.

Phone # +92-21-36450684

E-mail: info@rohricement.com

Factory: Rohri, Sukkur, Pakistan.

Phone # +92-71-650111

Lansdowne Bridge Rohri: A Historic and Engineering Marvel

Lansdowne Bridge Rohri:    

 A Historic and Engineering Marvel The Lansdowne Bridge Rohri is a 19th-century bridge that spans the Indus River between the cities of Sukkur and Rohri, in the Sindh province of Pakistan. It was named after Lord Lansdowne, the viceroy of India at the time of its inauguration in 1889. The bridge is a remarkable feat of engineering, as it was the longest cantilever bridge in the world when it was completed, and it had to support the load of heavy steam locomotives. The bridge also has a significant historical and cultural value, as it connected the regions of Sindh and Balochistan, and facilitated trade and travel across the Indus Valley.

 Design and Construction 

    The Lansdowne Bridge Rohri was designed by Sir Alexander Meadows Rendel, a British civil engineer who specialized in railway and bridge projects. He designed the bridge as a cantilever truss, which consists of two arms projecting from each pier and meeting at the center without any intermediate support. The bridge has a total length of 820 feet, and a span of 790 feet, making it the longest rigid girder bridge in the world at the time. The girder work, weighing a massive 3,300 tons, was manufactured in London by the firm of Westwood, Baillie and erected by F.E. Robertson, and Hecquet

     The construction of the bridge was a challenging task, as the river bed at the site was not rocky but silty, making it difficult to build a stable foundation. Moreover, the river was prone to floods and changes in its course, which posed a risk to the workers and the materials. The construction also claimed six lives, four men fell from the dizzy heights and two were killed by tools falling on them. The cost of the bridge was Rs 2.7 million, including Rs 276,000 that were spent on foundations only.

     The bridge was inaugurated on March 25, 1889, by Lord Reay, the governor of Bombay, who deputized for Lord Lansdowne, the viceroy of India. The bridge allowed for easier rail access between Sindh and Balochistan, and also linked the westernmost post of Khyber Pass to the eastern city of Calcutta. The bridge was a vital part of the Indus Valley State Railway, which was later merged into the North-Western Railway, and then the Pakistan Railways.

Legacy and Significance 

     The Lansdowne Bridge Rohri is not only a remarkable engineering achievement, but also a symbol of the historical and cultural heritage of the region. The bridge connects the two ancient cities of Sukkur and Rohri, which have been inhabited since the Indus Valley Civilization, and have witnessed the rise and fall of various empires and dynasties. The bridge also overlooks the Bukkur Island, which is home to several historical monuments, such as the Tomb of Khwaja Khizr, the Fort of Bukkur, and the Masjid of Mir Masum. The bridge also offers a scenic view of the Indus River, which is the lifeline of the region and the source of its rich agriculture and biodiversity.

     The bridge has been a witness to many historical events and changes, such as the Partition of India, the creation of Pakistan, the wars with India, and the development of the country. The bridge has also been a source of inspiration and pride for many people, such as poets, writers, artists, and travelers, who have praised its beauty and grandeur. The bridge is also a popular tourist attraction, and a site of festivals and celebrations, such as the Sindhi Culture Day, the Independence Day, and the Basant Festival.

     The Lansdowne Bridge Rohri is a historic and engineering marvel that deserves to be preserved and appreciated for its contribution to the region and the country. The bridge is a testament to the skill and vision of its designers and builders, and the resilience and diversity of its people. The bridge is a bridge of history, culture, and progress.

Video Available At YouTube Click Here 

The M-5 Motorway: A Symbol of Pakistan-China Friendship and Cooperation

 The Sukkur-Multan Motorway: A Milestone for Pakistan's Development

The Sukkur-Multan Motorway (M-5) is a 392 km long, six-lane, high-speed motorway that connects the cities of Sukkur and Multan in Pakistan. The motorway is part of the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC), a mega-project that aims to enhance trade, connectivity, and cooperation between the two countries. The M-5 motorway was inaugurated on 5 November 2019, after four years of construction, and is currently the longest motorway in Pakistan.

The M-5 motorway has several benefits for Pakistan's economy, society, and environment. The motorway reduces the travel time between Sukkur and Multan from 7 hours to 3.5 hours, which improves the efficiency and safety of transportation. The motorway also facilitates the movement of goods and people across the country, especially from the southern port city of Karachi to the northern regions of Punjab and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa. The motorway also boosts the tourism industry, as it provides access to various historical and cultural sites along the route, such as the Uch Sharif, the Zahir Pir Shrine, and the Rohri Fort.

The M-5 motorway is also a testament to the strong friendship and collaboration between Pakistan and China. The motorway was built by China State Construction Engineering Corporation (CSCEC), with 90% of the project's cost financed by Chinese loans. The motorway employed nearly 30,000 Pakistani workers, and transferred technology and skills from Chinese engineers to Pakistani counterparts. The motorway also showcases the high-quality and standards of Chinese infrastructure, as it features 54 bridges, 12 service areas, 10 rest areas, 11 interchanges, 10 flyovers, and 426 underpasses.

The Sukkur-Multan Motorway is a remarkable achievement for Pakistan's development, and a symbol of the deep and lasting friendship between Pakistan and China. The motorway is expected to generate economic and social benefits for both countries, and pave the way for more cooperation and integration under the CPEC framework.

• How the M-5 Motorway Transforms Pakistan’s Transportation and Trade
• The M-5 Motorway: A Symbol of Pakistan-China Friendship and Cooperation
• Pakistan’s Longest Motorway: The M-5 Sukkur-Multan Project
• The Benefits and Challenges of the M-5 Sukkur-Multan Motorway for Pakistan’s Development
• The M-5 Sukkur-Multan Motorway: A Key Component of the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor

Source Official Site 

National Highway Authority NHA

Postal Code Sukkur: What You Need to Know About the City’s Mail System

 Postal Code Sukkur: A Guide to the City's Postal System

  Sukkur is a city in the Sindh province of Pakistan, located on the banks of the Indus River. It is the third largest city in Sindh and the 14th largest in Pakistan. Sukkur is known for its historical landmarks, such as the Sukkur Barrage, the Masoom Shah Minaret, and the Tomb of the Seven Sisters.

Sukkur has a postal system that uses a five-digit code to identify different areas and locations within the city. The postal code, also known as the zip code or the postcode, is used to facilitate the delivery of mail and parcels. The postal code is usually written at the end of an address, after the name of the city and the province.

The postal code for Sukkur city is 65200. However, there are many other postal codes for different areas and localities within Sukkur. For example, the postal code for Arain Road is 65320, the postal code for Babarloi is 65270, and the postal code for Rohri is 65170. The postal code for Sukkur Board of Secondary Education is 65210, the postal code for Sukkur GPO is 65200, and the postal code for Sukkur Cement Works is 65180.

     The postal codes for Sukkur are assigned by the Pakistan Post, the national postal service of Pakistan. The Pakistan Post operates a network of post offices, mail sorting centers, and delivery services across the country. The Pakistan Post also offers online services, such as tracking, complaints, and e-commerce.

The postal codes for Sukkur can be found on various websites, such as [The Postal Codes]

These websites provide a list of postal codes for Sukkur, along with the names of the areas and localities, the delivery GPO, and the map of the city.

The postal code Sukkur is an important part of the city's postal system. It helps in ensuring the accurate and timely delivery of mail and parcels to the residents and businesses of Sukkur. It also helps in identifying the location and the area of the sender and the receiver of the mail. The postal code Sukkur is a symbol of the city's identity and culture.

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Political parties in Sukkur 2023

     Sukkur is a city in the Sindh province of Pakistan, and the headquarters of the Sukkur district. It is the third largest city in Sindh, after Karachi and Hyderabad, and has a population of about 1.4 million. Sukkur is also an important political hub, as it hosts several constituencies for the provincial and national assemblies.

The political landscape of Sukkur is dominated by two major parties: the Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP) and the Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N). The PPP has a strong base in the rural areas of Sukkur, while the PML-N has more support in the urban areas. The PPP is led by Bilawal Bhutto-Zardari, the son of former prime minister Benazir Bhutto and former president Asif Ali Zardari. The PML-N is led by Nawaz Sharif, the former prime minister who was ousted by a court verdict in 2017 and is currently in exile in London.

The PPP and the PML-N have been rivals for decades, and have alternated in power at the federal and provincial levels. In the 2018 general elections, the PPP won 76 out of 130 seats in the Sindh Assembly, while the PML-N won only two seats. The PPP also won four out of five seats in the National Assembly from Sukkur, while the PML-N won one seat. The PPP formed the government in Sindh, while the PML-N joined the opposition in the centre.

However, the political scenario in Sukkur may change in the upcoming 2023 general elections, as new challenges and opportunities emerge for both parties. The PPP faces the threat of losing its popularity among the masses, as it is accused of corruption, mismanagement, and nepotism. The party also faces internal divisions, as some of its leaders and workers are unhappy with the leadership of Bilawal and Zardari. The PPP also faces competition from other parties, such as the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI), the ruling party in the centre, and the Muttahida Qaumi Movement (MQM), the urban-based party that has a strong presence in Karachi and Hyderabad.

The PML-N, on the other hand, hopes to regain its lost ground in Sukkur, as it tries to mobilize its supporters and attract new voters. The party also hopes to benefit from the return of Nawaz Sharif, who is expected to lead the election campaign of his party. The PML-N also hopes to capitalize on the public discontent with the PTI government, which is facing criticism for its economic policies, inflation, unemployment, and security issues. The PML-N also hopes to form alliances with other parties, such as the Jamiat Ulema-e-Islam (JUI-F), the religious party that has a significant vote bank in the rural areas of Sindh.

The political parties in Sukkur are gearing up for the 2023 general elections, as they try to woo the voters with their manifestos, slogans, and rallies. The elections will be a test of the popularity and performance of the parties, as well as the aspirations and expectations of the people. The elections will also determine the future of Sukkur, as well as the fate of Sindh and Pakistan.

PPP calls for level-playing field for all political parties: This article reports on the statement of PPP Chairman Bilawal Bhutto-Zardari, who said that there is not a level-playing field for everyone in the run-up to the general elections. He also expressed his condolences to the family of slain journalist Jan Muhammad Mahar, and criticized the former PTI government for allowing terrorists to enter Pakistan from Afghanistan.

Election Commission of Pakistan: This is the official website of the Election Commission of Pakistan, where you can find information about the elections laws, the list of political parties, the symbols allotted to them, and the FAQs.

PS-23 Sukkur-II, Sindh Assembly Election 1 Results & Party Position: This page shows the results of the 2018 general elections for the PS-23 Sukkur-II constituency, where Masroor Ahmed Khan Jatoi of the National Peoples Party won with 38263 votes, followed by Qurban Ali of the PPP with 20037 votes.

Bilawal rues ‘uneven’ playing field in run-up to polls: This article provides more details on the press conference of Bilawal Bhutto-Zardari in Sukkur, where he raised objections to the lack of a level playing field in the elections, and said that there was a need to do away with outdated methods of running the country.

Jamiat Ulema-e-Islam (S) - Wikipedia: This is the Wikipedia page of the Jamiat Ulema-e-Islam (S), a religious party led by Maulana Samiul Haq, who is the head of the Muttahida Deeni Mahaz (MDM), a group of five small religious parties and groups that is contesting the elections.PPP calls for level-playing field for all political parties

Ayoub Bridge: A Marvel of Engineering and History in Pakistan

The Ayoub bridge is a railway bridge over the River Indus between Rohri and Sukkur in Sindh, Pakistan. It was inaugurated by President Ayub Khan in 1962, and it is the world’s third longest railway arch span and the first railway bridge in the world to be slung on coiled wire rope suspenders. The bridge is about 806 feet long, 247 feet high and cost 21.6 million PKR. It has served for 50 years by providing a strong link for rail traffic.

The bridge was designed by David B. Steinman, a renowned American engineer who also reconstructed the Brooklyn Bridge in New York. The contractor was Dorman Long Gammon of London, famous for the Sydney Harbour Bridge in 1932. The construction of the bridge was challenging, as the river bed had rocks that did not allow the pillars to withstand the constant flow and pressure of water. Therefore, four huge cemented abutments were made on each side of the river banks, and then the steel arch was lifted and fixed on them with the help of cranes and cables.

The bridge is a symbol of engineering excellence and national pride for Pakistan. It also has historical and cultural significance, as it replaced the old Lansdowne Bridge that was used for boat and bicycle transport between Sukkur and Rohri. The bridge offers a spectacular view of the river and the surrounding landscape, especially at sunset. You can watch a video of the bridge from a train journey here

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