Showing posts with label railway bridge. Show all posts
Showing posts with label railway bridge. Show all posts

Thursday, February 15, 2024

Journey Through Pakistan's Railway: Rohri Train Station

 

A panoramic view of Rohri Junction railway station, a historic and cultural landmark of Pakistan, with trains, platforms, buildings, and hills in the background.


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: 

Wednesday, December 20, 2023

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.




Sunday, December 17, 2023

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

Source 
Ayoub Bridge at sunset The bridge offers a spectacular view of the river and the surrounding landscape, especially at sunset