Zeeshan Haider
SOME regions are more than mere patches of land on a map. They are masterpieces of nature that make us wonder whether beauty could take physical form. Pakistan is blessed with many such places and Soon Sakesar Valley is certainly one of them. Situated in the northwest of Khushab District, Soon Sakesar stretches from Padhrar to Sakesar, the highest peak of the Salt Range. The valley is a remarkable blend of mountains, forests, lakes, springs, waterfalls and fertile fields. Its three lakes—Uchhali, Khabeki and Jahlar—attract migratory waterfowl, while its forests provide habitat for wildlife including urial, chinkara, partridge and black partridge.
The valley’s Blue Mountains, green slopes, orchards, clear springs and waving fields create a landscape that can make visitors forget the pressures of everyday life. It is easy to understand why the region has long attracted travellers and nature lovers. Soon Valley is not only beautiful; it is also fertile. Peaches, apricots, pears, grapes, figs and olives contribute to its agricultural identity. Wheat cultivation is another important part of the local economy and with modern technology, technical guidance and better facilities, the valley could contribute even more to Pakistan’s agricultural production.
Beneath its soil lie further resources, including gypsum, silica, coal and salt. Its natural wealth therefore extends beyond tourism and agriculture to the mineral sector. The valley has also produced distinguished people in literature and the professions. Ahmad Nadeem Qasmi, one of Pakistan’s most celebrated poets and short-story writers, was born in the region. Prominent lawyer Mansoor Usman Awan, who has served as Attorney General for Pakistan, also traces his roots to Soon Sakesar. Mansoor Usman Awan’s rise to one of the country’s highest legal offices has generated considerable goodwill in his native region. His familiarity with local concerns and continued contact with people from the area have strengthened that connection. His legal career has also taken him onto the international stage, including Pakistan’s representation in proceedings concerning the Indus Waters Treaty at The Hague.
I have personally visited Soon Valley several times while working on programmes to introduce modern agricultural technology to local farmers. Those visits revealed a striking contrast: nature has given the region extraordinary riches, but human neglect has left visible signs of deprivation. Poor roads, inadequate educational facilities and limited basic amenities remain major challenges. Recent development initiatives, including efforts to improve roads and educational institutions, offer renewed hope. The real measure of progress, however, will be whether these efforts improve the lives of ordinary people through quality education, modern agriculture, employment and better public services.
Tourism could become another major engine of development. Soon Valley offers lakes, springs, waterfalls, forests, mountains, orchards, wildlife and historical sites. Better roads, accommodation, sanitation, tourist information and recreational facilities could place it firmly on Pakistan’s tourism map. Yet development must not come at the expense of the beauty that attracts visitors. Unplanned construction, pollution and uncontrolled exploitation of forests and wildlife could permanently damage the valley.
Soon Valley is more than a beautiful landscape; it is a blend of history, culture, agriculture, mineral wealth, literature and human potential. Its lakes, forests, mountains and fertile lands deserve a prominent place on Pakistan’s tourism and economic map. The challenge is to connect this priceless region with future opportunities while preserving its natural character. Its soil produces not only crops, but dreams; and beneath its mountains lie not only minerals, but possibilities. The time has come to let this priceless gem shine.
—The writer is contributing columnist, based in Islamabad.
