Friday, February 4, 2011
Salt Mines Khewara
Khewra Salt Mines (world's 2nd largest)is situated at the distance of 160 km from Islamabad and 260 km from Lahore in Tehsil Pind Dadan Khan District Jhelum. It has easy approach via Lahore – Islamabad Motorway through Lilla Interchange. Discovery of Rock Salt dates back to days of Alexander the great. It was in the year 1872, when scientific mining operation started under the British rule. Prior to annexation of Punjab by the British Empire in the year 1849, the salt mines in the province were owned and operated by the Janjua Rajas, and after its annexation, the British Government took over the administration of these mines. Centuries ago, salt was take out at these mines from the out-crops of the salt seams exposed to the surface of the hill by those who were living in its vicinity. Dr. Warth, a renowned Mining Engineer of UK, laid out the main tunnel at ground level in 1872 to have an easy and direct approach to salt deposits. The new system introduced by Dr. Warth is still in-vogue. There are 19 levels at present in the Khewra Mine with the systematic workings. Only 50% of salt is excavated from the working seam while the remaining 50% is left as pillars.
Jhelum City
The district capital, Jhelum City, is situated on the right bank of the Jhelum River, crossed by a bridge. The 16th-century Grand Trunk Road passes through the city. Jhelum city is near the site of the famous Battle of the Hydaspes between the armies of Alexander the Great and Raja Porus This battle took place a few miles downstream from the city centre, along the river banks. Population of the Jhelum city (proper) is about 172,073[11](2009) and it is the 35th largest city of Pakistan with respect to population. A cantonment was built during the British rule, which has grown up into a strong Garrison, with an Infantry Division commanded by a Major General.
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