Engineering marvels from the colonial era
Railway tunnels built through the rugged terrain of the Kala Chitta Hills stand the test of time 128 years after their construction. PHOTO: EXPRESS
RAWALPINDI
Nestled in the Attock district of Punjab, the Kala Chitta hill range is home to an extraordinary blend of history, architecture, and natural beauty.
Among its treasures are the seven tunnels, an engineering marvel from the colonial era.
Built between 1896 and 1898 by British railway engineers, these tunnels depict the remarkable technical prowess and the seamless integration of European and Mughal architectural influences.
Dubbed the "Seven Sisters," the tunnels stretch five kilometres and have a combined length of 9,046 feetor about three kilometres.
Each tunnel varies in length, with the fourth tunnel standing out as an engineering wonder due to its curved design, unlike the rest, which follow a straight path.
Even today, 128 years after their construction, these tunnels remain robust, their strength and charm predicted to endure for another century.
Surrounding the tunnels is a dense national park teeming with wildlife and natural springs. These forests, rich with wild olive trees, provide sanctuary to a variety of animals, including deer, jackals, wolves, and foxes.
Birdlife abounds, from pheasants and hawks to green parrots and migratory water birds that flock here from Siberia during winter.
The springs add a touch of serenity to the rugged landscape, enhancing the area's allure.
The Shakardara Bridge, situated between the first and second tunnels, and the Jhalar Railway Station, built in 1880, further enrich the historical and architectural significance of the region.
Experts and locals alike see immense potential for turning Kala Chitta Pahar into a premier tourist destination.
Hassan Naqvi, a local tourism expert, emphasises the area's natural wealth, wildlife, and the enduring beauty of its ancient structures.
Former Divisional Superintendent of Railways Munawwar Shah highlighted Pakistan Railways' diligent preservation of this railway heritage, calling it a gift for future generations.
Residents Faheem Abbasi and Chaudhary Imran shared the sentiment, urging authorities to develop picnic spots and tourist facilities around the tunnels and springs.
With the right investment, this historical and ecological haven could emerge as a major attraction, drawing visitors from far and wide.
Kala Chitta Pahar's Seven Sisters are more than a relic of the pastthey are a beacon of what can be achieved when history, nature, and thoughtful preservation come together.