Showing posts with label Sindh Tourism. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Sindh Tourism. Show all posts

Saturday, 14 June 2025

Lakhian Jo Daro: Secrets of an Ancient Indus Valley City

Lakhian Jo Daro: Unveiling the Secrets of an Ancient Indus Valley City

Introduction

Designed to be descriptive yet concise, highlighting the artifacts’ historical and cultural significance for accessibility
Ancient figurines and pottery from Lakhian Jo Daro


Lakhian Jo Daro, also known as Lakhan Jo Daro or Lakhueen-jo-daro, is a significant archaeological site near Sukkur in Pakistan’s Sindh province. As one of the largest urban centers of the Indus Valley Civilization, it rivals Mohenjo Daro in size and historical importance. Discovered in 1985, the site has revealed artifacts and structures that offer insights into a sophisticated civilization that thrived thousands of years ago. This article explores the history, excavations, significance, and ongoing preservation efforts of Lakhian Jo Daro, a vital part of Pakistan’s cultural heritage.

Location and Discovery

Situated on the right bank of the Indus River, approximately 100 kilometers from Mohenjo Daro, Lakhian Jo Daro lies within an industrial zone on the outskirts of modern Sukkur, at coordinates 27°43.27 N, 68°50.51 E. The site was first uncovered in 1985 by Professor Qasid Mallah and his team from Khairpur University, sparking interest due to its proximity to the Rohri Hills and its strategic riverine location, suggesting it was a key hub for trade and industry.

Excavations and Findings

Since its discovery, Lakhian Jo Daro has been the focus of multiple excavation campaigns led by teams from Shah Abdul Latif University and the University of Sindh. These efforts, spanning from 1986 to 2017, have unearthed evidence of continuous settlement from the Neolithic to the Mature Indus period (circa 7000 BCE to 2000 BCE). Key excavations include:

  • 1986–1995: Salvage excavations by the Department of Archaeology, Government of Pakistan, and Shah Abdul Latif University revealed early structures and artifacts.
  • 1996–2000: Professor Muhammad Mukhtiar Kazi excavated Mound C and D-10, uncovering walls, bathing platforms, and drainage systems indicative of advanced urban planning.
  • 2008–2017: Dr. Ghulam Mustafa Shar and Dr. Qasid Hussain Mallah led further digs, discovering faience workshops and steatite seals.
  • 2009 Rescue Excavations: Revealed wells containing objects associated with unknown cults, such as figurines covered in pots, alongside workshops for faience and steatite cutting, producing bangles, beads, and seals.

Notable findings include:

A small copper figurine from Lakhian Jo Daro, showing a human figure in a spear-throwing pose, highlighting Indus Valley metallurgy.
Copper Anthropomorphic Figurine


Artifact Description
Copper Figurine A 4.4 cm tall figurine from the mid-3rd millennium BCE, cast via lost-wax process, possibly depicting a spear-thrower.
Scrap Copper Hoard Micro-tubes and folded sheets, suggesting advanced metallurgy.
Indus Script Tablet A tablet with inscriptions, offering clues to the undeciphered Indus script.
Pottery and Beads Thousands of pottery items, lapis lazuli, carnelian, and agate beads, indicating a robust craft industry.

These discoveries, detailed in a 2023 publication, highlight the site’s role as a center for pottery, metallurgy, and bead manufacturing, supported by extensive trade networks.

Significance and Comparison

Spanning over 300 hectares, Lakhian Jo Daro is larger than Mohenjo Daro (250 hectares), making it one of the largest cities of the Indus Valley Civilization. Its multi-story buildings, sophisticated drainage systems, and craft workshops suggest a highly organized society. Compared to Mohenjo Daro, known for its urban planning, Lakhian Jo Daro stands out for its industrial prowess, particularly in metallurgy and bead production. Artifacts like the copper figurine and Indus script tablet provide critical insights into the civilization’s technology and communication systems.

Current Status and Threats

As of 2023, Lakhian Jo Daro faces significant threats from urban expansion and illegal occupation due to its location within Sukkur’s industrial zone. Efforts are ongoing to designate it as a protected antiquity and establish a site museum to preserve and display its artifacts, as noted in recent archaeological discussions. These initiatives aim to safeguard the site’s legacy for future generations.

Historical Context: Chronology and Discovery

Ancient Timeline: Evidence suggests occupation from the Early Harappan/Kot Diji phase (3300–2600 BCE) through the Mature Harappan period (2600–1900 BCE). Pottery styles and radiocarbon dating (c. 2000 BCE) align with contemporaneous Indus sites like Mohenjo-Daro and Harappa.

Modern Discovery: First identified in 1985 by faculty from Shah Abdul Latif University (Khairpur), not by Professor Qasid Mallah as sometimes reported. Initial small-scale digs (1985–1995) were followed by major campaigns in 2006, 2009/10, 2013, and 2017.

Controversial Claims: Some sources speculate a 9,000-year-old Neolithic origin (comparable to Mehrgarh), but this remains unverified. Scholarly consensus, based on stratified artifacts, places its zenith in the Mature Harappan period .

Excavations and Structural Insights

Key Campaigns and Findings:

1985–1995 (Salvage Archaeology):

Mapped central and western mounds, revealing residential quarters and craft workshops.

Identified unique packed-clay walls (not standard mud bricks), a feature shared only with elite sectors of Mohenjo-Daro.

2009–2017 (Industrial Revelations):

Western mound excavations exposed a steatite (soapstone) bead and seal factory with vitrified slag, kiln fragments, and thousands of bead blanks.

Discovered a faience mirror workshop, suggesting technological parallels with ancient Mediterranean cultures.

Uncovered copper smelting furnaces and a deep trench with Kot Diji-style pottery, indicating Early Harappan roots.

Conclusion

Lakhian Jo Daro is a testament to the ingenuity of the Indus Valley Civilization, offering a window into a vibrant urban center that thrived millennia ago. Its artifacts and structures underscore the advanced technologies and trade networks of the time. Protecting this site is crucial for preserving Pakistan’s cultural heritage and advancing our understanding of ancient civilizations. Visitors to Rohri.net can explore this and other historical treasures of Sindh, ensuring that the legacy of Lakhian Jo Daro endures.

References and Further Reading

For a deeper understanding of Lakhian Jo Daro and the Indus Valley Civilization, the following books are recommended:

  • The Indus Civilization: A Contemporary Perspective by Gregory L. Possehl
  • Ancient Cities of the Indus Valley Civilization by Jonathan Mark Kenoyer
  • Mohenjo-Daro and the Indus Civilization by John Marshall
  • Five Thousand Years of Pakistan: An Archaeological Outline by R.E.M. Wheeler

Additionally, academic articles in the Ancient Sindh Journal of Research provide detailed reports on the site’s excavations:

  • Shaikh, N., Vessar, G.M., & Mallah, Q.H. (2006). The excavation of Indus Period site Lakhan Jo Daro. Ancient Sindh Journal of Research, 8, 7-194.
  • Shah Abdul Latif University Department of Archaeology - Official page detailing the Department of Archaeology at Shah Abdul Latif University, Khairpur.
  • Lakhian Jo Daro Excavation Yields Antiques - News article on 2010 excavations at Lakhian Jo Daro.
  • Don't Forget Lakhan Jo Daro - Dawn article discussing the significance and threats to Lakhian Jo Daro.
  • Lakhan-Jo-Daro Wikipedia - Wikipedia entry on Lakhan-Jo-Daro’s history and excavations.
  • Lakheen-Jo-Daro Indus Civilization Settlement - Harappa.com article on Lakhian Jo Daro’s copper hoard and figurine.
  • LAKHEN JO DARO Past and Present - ResearchGate publication detailing the history and findings of Lakhian Jo Daro.
  • Sindh Tourism Development Corporation Lakhian Jo Daro - Information on Lakhian Jo Daro’s significance and excavation history.
  • An Archaeological Site in Ruins - Dawn article on the neglect and challenges facing Lakhian Jo Daro.
  • Lakhan-Jo-Daro ALL THINGS PAKISTAN - Blog post discussing the archaeological importance of Lakhian Jo Daro.
  • Site Older Than Mohenjodaro Found - Article reporting on 2009 excavations suggesting Lakhian Jo Daro’s antiquity.

Shar, G.M. (2006). Discovery of an Indus scale at Lakhueen-jo-Daro (Sukkur, Sindh Pakistan) and its implications in the study of the linear measurements of the Indus civilization. Ancient Sindh Journal of Research, 49.

Visiting Lakhian Jo Daro Today
Location: Inside Sukkur’s S.I.T.E. zone (Coordinates: 27.7248868, 68.8484333). Follow National Highway N-5 southeast from Sukkur.

Preservation Crisis and the Path Forward
Active Destruction: The site lies within Sukkur’s Industrial Trading Estate (S.I.T.E.). Modern factories, garbage dumping, and "builder mafia" activities have damaged upper layers irreparably. Police-protected encroachments exacerbate losses.

Stabilization Efforts:

The Sindh Antiquities Department deployed a site attendant (Mr. Ashfaq Abro) and regulates visiting hours (summer: 8 AM–7 PM; winter: 9 AM–6 PM) 1.

Proposed site museum (announced 2009) remains unrealized; salvage archaeology continues amid construction 37.

Urgent Needs: Designation as a protected antiquity, digital documentation, and community-led conservation programs.

Access:

Taxi: 500–700 PKR from Sukkur city (30 mins).

Public Transport: Buses/rickshaws to S.I.T.E. (50 PKR); walk 10–15 mins to mounds.

What to See: Exposed craft workshops, pottery-layered trenches, and reconstructed kiln bases. Note: Much of the site remains unexcavated or buried.

Post: Sayed Sajjad Hussain Musavi

© 2025 Discover Rohri The Ancient City of Sindh

#LakhianJoDaro, #IndusValley, #Sukkur, #Archaeology #LakhianJoDaro #IndusValleyCivilization
#SukkurArchaeology #PakistanHeritage #MohenjoDaro #AncientHistory #IndusScript #ArchaeologicalDiscoveries #SindhCulture #RohriHistory


Monday, 26 May 2025

The History of Sukkur’s First Airport: From Early Airstrips to Modern Aviation

The History of Sukkur’s First Airport: From Early Airstrips to Modern Aviation

Sukkur, a vibrant city in Pakistan’s Sindh province, is renowned for its historical landmarks and infrastructural achievements. Among these is the story of its first airport a tale of innovation, challenges, and evolution. This article explores the origins of aviation in Sukkur, from its earliest airstrip to the modern Begum Nusrat Bhutto International Airport, while providing context from global and regional aviation history.

Black-and-white aerial view of Sukkur's first airport airstrip (1930s) with vintage biplanes, showcasing early aviation in Pakistan.
Historic Sukkur Airport: From 1930s Airstrip to Modern Aviation Hub


A Glimpse into Early Aviation History

The dawn of aviation transformed the world in the early 20th century. While pinpointing the "first airport" is complex, an airfield near Paris, France, emerged around 1907, followed by the College Park Airport in Maryland, USA, in 1909 often cited as the oldest continually operating airport. In Asia, Bangkok, Thailand, established one of the continent’s earliest airports on March 27, 1914, now known as Don Mueang International Airport. These milestones set the stage for aviation’s global expansion.

In South Asia, under British colonial rule, Karachi led the way. In 1929, an airport was established there, welcoming its first flight from Imperial Airways, which connected London to the subcontinent. This marked a significant moment for the region, including present-day Pakistan.

Sukkur’s Early Aviation Ventures

Sukkur’s aviation history is deeply tied to its development during British rule. The British presence intensified around 1838, coinciding with the global rise of aviation. By the late 19th century, an intriguing event foreshadowed Sukkur’s aerial ambitions. In 1894, near Adam Shah’s hill, a British woman ascended in a hot air balloon and parachuted back to earth. Organized to raise funds for railway workshop workers, this spectacle hinted at the region’s early curiosity about flight, though it wasn’t a precursor to an airport.

The real push for aviation came with the construction of the Sukkur Barrage, a massive irrigation project. On January 13, 1932, Lord Willingdon, the Viceroy of India, inaugurated the barrage, boosting Sukkur’s strategic importance. To support the influx of British officials and engineers, an airstrip was built near the new graveyard in Sukkur. This marked the city’s first foray into air travel, accommodating small aircraft.


Begum Nusrat Bhutto International Airport in Sukkur: Glass-fronted terminal with parked Pakistan International Airlines jets under clear skies.
Sukkur Airport History: From Pakistan’s First Airstrip to Begum Nusrat Bhutto International


Challenges of the First Airstrip

The initial airstrip, however, faced significant hurdles. The site’s clay-heavy soil proved problematic, especially during rain. In one documented incident, an aircraft landed after a downpour and became mired in the muddy ground. Despite efforts to free it, the plane remained stuck until the soil dried, exposing the location’s flaws. A signal tower with a rotating light was installed on Adam Shah’s hill to aid navigation, but the airstrip’s persistent issues exacerbated by incomplete groundwork from a British contractor led to its closure. The tower remained a local landmark for years, a relic of this early experiment.

While these details stem from local narratives, their specificity suggests some basis in truth, though historical records are scarce. The story reflects Sukkur’s ambition to embrace modern transportation, even if the execution faltered.

The Birth of Modern Sukkur Airport

After Pakistan’s independence in 1947, the need for a functional airport persisted. In the 1960s, the government constructed a new facility 3 or 4 miles from Sukkur, near Arain village. Built on stable, dry land, this airport overcame the previous site’s challenges. With a 9,000-foot runway, it could handle larger aircraft, serving domestic routes and Hajj flights.

On February 26, 2012, the Sukkur airport was renamed Begum Nusrat Bhutto International Airport, honoring the influential Pakistani political figure. In September 2022, the Civil Aviation Authority announced plans to upgrade the facility, including extending the runway, taxiway, apron, and terminal to accommodate bigger planes, signaling its growing role in regional connectivity.

Historical Context: The Sukkur Barrage and Beyond

The Sukkur Barrage was pivotal to the region’s development. Completed in 1932, it revolutionized agriculture in Sindh, drawing attention and investment to Sukkur. This economic boost necessitated improved transportation, including air links. Meanwhile, Adam Shah’s hill carries its own historical weight. It houses the mausoleum of Mian Adam Shah Kalhoro, built in 1768 by Ghulam Shah Kalhoro, and was the site of a fierce battle in 1834 between Shah Shuja’s forces and the Talpur Mirs. These events enrich the backdrop of Sukkur’s aviation story.

Conclusion: A Journey of Resilience

From a balloon ascent in 1894 to a troubled airstrip in the 1930s and a modern international airport today, Sukkur’s aviation history mirrors its resilience and adaptability. The early challenges near Adam Shah’s hill gave way to a facility that now connects Sukkur to the world. As upgrades continue, the Begum Nusrat Bhutto International Airport stands as a testament to the city’s enduring progress.

References

  • General Aviation History: Verified from online sources on early airports (e.g., College Park, Don Mueang, Karachi).
  • Sukkur’s Aviation Details: Translated and adapted from the Sindhi text "سکر جو پهريون ايئرپورٽ"; some specifics (e.g., the stuck aircraft) are treated as local lore due to limited historical confirmation.
  • Sukkur Barrage and Adam Shah’s Hill: Sourced from the Sindhi text and general historical knowledge of Sindh.
  • Note: Where primary sources are unavailable, details are presented as part of Sukkur’s narrative tradition rather than definitive fact.
  • Sayed Imdad Hussain Shah Rizvi. (2025). Personal communication

Post: Sayed Sajjad Hussain Musavi

© 2025 Discover Rohri The Ancient City of Sindh

first airport in Sukkur, history of Sukkur Airport, Begum Nusrat Bhutto International Airport, Sukkur Barrage, aviation history Pakistan

#SukkurAirport #AviationHistory #PakistanAirports #SukkurBarrage #BegumNusratBhutto

Wednesday, 4 December 2024

Sukkur Airport: The Hidden Gem of Regional Travel

Sukkur Airport: The Hidden Gem of Regional Travel

Aerial view of Sukkur Airport with its runway, airplanes in motion, and surrounding landscape, showcasing the region's travel significance and natural beauty.

Sukkur Airport: The Hidden Gem of Regional Travel

Located in the heart of Sindh province, Sukkur Airport - officially known as Begum Nusrat Bhutto International Airport - is an important gateway connecting the northern and southern regions of Pakistan. This strategically located airport serves not only Sukkur city but also neighboring districts, providing access to thousands of travelers.

As more travelers seek genuine experiences beyond the main airports, the aviation industry is evolving. Sukkur Airport perfectly embodies this trend by offering:

  • A rich history dating back to 1942
  • A strategic location serving multiple districts
  • Convenient domestic flights
  • Untapped potential for international flights

The Importance of Sukkur Airport

The airport's unique location makes it a crucial part of Pakistan's transportation system. It plays a vital role in connecting different regions and facilitating travel for both business and leisure purposes.

With its combination of historical significance and aspirations for growth, Sukkur Airport strikes a balance between preserving cultural heritage and embracing progress. It supports regional tourism and business travel, contributing to Sindh's economic development.

Conclusion

Sukkur Airport may not be as well-known as other airports in Pakistan, but it holds great potential for regional travel. As more people discover the charm of this hidden gem, the airport is set to become a key player in promoting tourism and boosting local economies.

1. History of Sukkur Airport

Sukkur Airport has a rich history that dates back to 1942 during the British colonial era. The British military established the airfield as a strategic base to support their operations across the Indian subcontinent. It served as an important military installation, hosting various types of aircraft and personnel during World War II.

Changes in the 1980s and Beyond

In 1980, the airport underwent significant changes when it was renamed to honor Begum Nusrat Bhutto, a prominent political figure and former First Lady of Pakistan. This marked a shift in its identity from a military facility to one associated with civilian aviation.

In January 2012, the airport received its current designation as Begum Nusrat Bhutto International Airport, further solidifying this transformation.

Architectural Significance

The historical significance of Sukkur Airport is reflected in its architectural elements. Parts of the original military infrastructure are still visible alongside modern additions, showcasing the blend of colonial-era heritage and contemporary developments.

This unique atmosphere created by both old and new structures adds character to the experience for travelers passing through its terminals.

2. Location and Accessibility

Sukkur Airport is located 8 kilometers northwest of Sukkur's bustling city center, making it convenient for travelers to access the main areas of upper Sindh. Its strategic location serves as an important entry point for various regions:

  • Khairpur - 30 minutes drive
  • Shikarpur - 40 minutes drive
  • Jacobabad - 2 hours drive
  • Sibi - 3 hours drive

Reaching the airport and getting to other destinations is easy with multiple transportation options available:

  • Taxi Services - Available 24/7 at designated stands
  • Private Car Hire - Multiple rental companies operate at the terminal
  • Hotel Shuttles - Select hotels provide direct pickup services
  • Public Transport - Regular bus services connect to major city points

The airport's central location in Pakistan's agricultural heartland makes it a vital link for business travelers, agricultural traders, and tourists exploring the region's rich heritage sites.

3. Infrastructure and Facilities

Sukkur Airport's infrastructure is primarily based on its single paved runway, which measures 2,700 meters in length. This sturdy runway is capable of accommodating various types of aircraft, including:

  • ATR-72
  • Airbus A320
  • Boeing 737

Passenger Terminal

The passenger terminal, though compact, is designed to efficiently handle 150 passengers at a time. Within the terminal building, travelers can find essential amenities such as:

  • Prayer room for religious obligations
  • Café serving light refreshments and beverages
  • Souvenir shops featuring local handicrafts
  • Basic seating arrangements
  • Restroom facilities
  • Check-in counters
  • Security screening area

Safety Standards and Maintenance

The airport's infrastructure adheres to CAA safety standards while offering necessary facilities for domestic flight operations. Recent maintenance efforts have concentrated on improving the quality of the runway surface and maintaining the terminal building to ensure passenger comfort and operational safety.

4. Current Operations at Sukkur Airport

Sukkur Airport has a reliable schedule of domestic flights that connect passengers to major cities in Pakistan. Pakistan International Airlines (PIA) operates regular flights between Sukkur and Karachi, with services running three times a week. The Islamabad route has flights every two weeks, creating important connections between northern and southern Pakistan.

Strategic Role in Adverse Weather Conditions

The airport's strategic location makes it an ideal alternative landing site during challenging weather conditions. When visibility issues affect Karachi's Jinnah International Airport, Sukkur Airport steps in to accommodate diverted international flights. This capability has proven valuable during monsoon seasons and fog-related disruptions, similar to the options available for domestic travel in India when flights are cancelled due to bad weather.

Importance During Hajj Season

During the annual Hajj season, the airport becomes a crucial hub for religious travel. Special charter flights connect pilgrims directly to Saudi Arabian cities like Jeddah and Medina, showcasing the airport's ability to handle international operations when necessary.

5. Future Developments and Upgrades Planned for Sukkur Airport

The Civil Aviation Authority of Pakistan has unveiled ambitious plans to transform Sukkur Airport into a world-class facility. The proposed runway extension project aims to stretch the current 2,700-meter runway to 3,500 meters, enabling the airport to accommodate wide-body aircraft like the Airbus A330 and Boeing 777.

The modernization blueprint includes:

  • Construction of a new terminal building with enhanced passenger capacity
  • Installation of advanced navigation systems
  • Development of cargo handling facilities
  • Upgrade of existing taxiways and apron areas

The CAA's strategic initiative to grant international status to Sukkur Airport will position it as Sindh's second international gateway after Karachi. This upgrade aligns with Pakistan's Vision 2025, targeting increased regional connectivity and economic growth through improved air transport infrastructure.

6. Economic Impact on the Region Due to Sukkur Airport's Operations

Sukkur Airport plays a crucial role in boosting the local economy and promoting growth in the surrounding areas. Its strategic location has had a positive influence on various industries:

  • Trade Enhancement: Local businesses benefit from rapid cargo transportation, enabling fresh produce and manufactured goods to reach broader markets efficiently.
  • Business Travel: The airport's domestic routes connect entrepreneurs with major commercial hubs like Karachi and Islamabad, stimulating business partnerships and investments.
  • Tourism Growth: Regular flights have made it easier for tourists to visit attractions such as:
  • Ancient Sukkur Fort
  • Sadh Belo Temple
  • Lansdowne Bridge
  • Local bazaars

The presence of the airport has also led to development in nearby areas, with new hotels and commercial zones being built to accommodate travelers. This has created more job opportunities both directly at the airport and indirectly in industries such as hospitality, transport, and retail.

7. Challenges Facing Sukkur Airport in Its Growth Journey

Sukkur Airport faces significant operational hurdles that impact its development trajectory.

Capacity Limitations and Passenger Congestion

The existing terminal building struggles with capacity limitations during peak hours, creating passenger congestion.

Aging Navigation Equipment

The airport's aging navigation equipment requires urgent modernization to maintain safety standards.

Strain on Parking Facilities

Limited parking facilities strain both passenger convenience and operational efficiency.

Restrictions on Freight Operations

The absence of advanced cargo handling systems restricts the airport's potential for freight operations.

Runway Maintenance Needs

The current runway, while functional, needs resurfacing and enhanced lighting systems for night operations.

Staff Shortages in Key Departments

Staff shortages plague various departments, particularly in technical maintenance and ground handling.

Slower Processing Times

The lack of automated systems for baggage handling and check-in procedures results in slower processing times.

Upgrades Needed for Weather Monitoring

Weather monitoring capabilities need upgrades to improve flight scheduling accuracy during adverse conditions.

8. Conclusion: Embracing the Potential of Sukkur Airport as a Travel Hub

Sukkur Airport is a promising gateway to Pakistan's rich cultural heritage and business opportunities. Its strategic location and planned infrastructure improvements make it an emerging travel hub in the region. Here are some unique advantages of choosing Sukkur Airport:

  • Direct access to historic sites and archaeological treasures
  • Growing business opportunities in the region
  • Shorter travel times to neighboring cities
  • Less crowded terminals compared to major airports

The transformation of Sukkur Airport from a regional facility to an international gateway is a significant milestone in Pakistan's aviation sector. By choosing to fly through Sukkur Airport, you are supporting local economic growth and helping unlock the region's tourism potential. Experience the charm of this hidden gem - make Sukkur Airport part of your next travel itinerary.

FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)

What is the significance of Sukkur Airport in regional travel?

Sukkur Airport, also known as Begum Nusrat Bhutto International Airport, serves as a vital travel hub in the Sindh province. It offers convenient connectivity and has been gaining attention from travelers interested in exploring lesser-known airports for unique experiences.

What is the history of Sukkur Airport?

Established in 1942 as a military airfield during British rule, Sukkur Airport was renamed in honor of Begum Nusrat Bhutto in 1980. The airport received further recognition in 2012, highlighting its historical significance.

How accessible is Sukkur Airport?

Sukkur Airport is located just 8 kilometers from the city center, making it easily accessible for travelers. It also serves surrounding areas such as Khairpur, Jacobabad, Sibi, and Shikarpur, enhancing its role as a regional hub.

What facilities are available at Sukkur Airport?

The airport features a single paved runway measuring 2,700 meters and has a terminal capacity for 150 passengers. Basic amenities include a café, prayer room, and souvenir shops to cater to travelers' needs.

What are the current flight operations at Sukkur Airport?

Sukkur Airport primarily operates domestic flights to major cities like Karachi and Islamabad. Additionally, it can handle international flights during emergencies or adverse weather conditions.

What future developments are planned for Sukkur Airport?

Future upgrades for Sukkur Airport include plans for runway extension to accommodate larger aircraft and enhance operational efficiency. The Civil Aviation Authority of Pakistan is also working towards granting international status to the airport.


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Monday, 2 December 2024

Sukkur Airport: Gateway to the Heart of Sindh

 Introduction

Sukkur Airport, also known as Begum Nusrat Bhutto International Airport, serves as a vital transportation hub in the Sindh province of Pakistan. This article provides essential information about the airport, including its code, contact number, and departure details.

Aerial view of Sukkur Airport with airplanes on the runway and terminal buildings
An aerial view of Sukkur Airport, showcasing the runway and terminal buildings, serving as a vital transportation hub in Sindh, Pakistan.

Sukkur Airport Code

The IATA code for Sukkur Airport is SKZ, and the ICAO code is OPSK. These codes are essential for flight bookings and tracking.

Contact Information

For inquiries or assistance, you can contact Sukkur Airport at the following numbers:

Phone: +92-320-5593276, +92-335-3131434

Email: dsmskz@saps.com.pk, opsskz@saps.com.pk

Departures

Sukkur Airport offers flights to various destinations, including major cities like Karachi and Islamabad. You can check live departure information and flight status on platforms like Flightradar243.

Conclusion

Sukkur Airport plays a crucial role in connecting the region with the rest of the country. Whether you're planning a trip or just curious about the airport's operations, this information should be helpful.


Sukkur Airport

Begum Nusrat Bhutto International Airport

SKZ Airport code

Sukkur Airport contact number

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Sukkur Airport facilities

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Sukkur Airport services

Flights to Karachi from Sukkur

Flights to Islamabad from Sukkur

Sukkur airport live departures

Sukkur airport runway

Sukkur airport terminals

Sukkur airport information

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Sadaruddin Shah Badshah: The Sufi Saint of Rohri’s Spiritual Legacy

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