'Switzerland of Sargodha' comes back to life

Kanhatti Garden, renamed Narwari Garden, restored to its former beauty

KHUSHAB:

KHUSHAB

Once known as the "Switzerland of Sargodha," Khushab's famed Kanhatti Garden, now officially renamed Narwari Garden, has been restored to its former beauty after years of neglect and decay, thanks to the concerted efforts of the Sargodha Division administration.

Located in the scenic Soon Valley, the century-old garden was once the soul of Khushab.

In its prime, it attracted visitors from across Punjab, especially during the late September mist when the surrounding hills appeared dreamlike.

The garden's majestic stone walls, elegant guesthouse, and winding ancient staircase leading up the hill made it a masterpiece of colonial-era design.

But over the years, neglect and corruption turned this once-picturesque spot into a ruin.

The proud entrance gate was buried under broken walls and wild shrubs. Local literary figure Malik Zafar Awan told the Express that the dilapidated garden had become a "symbol of bureaucratic apathy."

He said that for years, the garden existed merely as a line item in official progress reports.

"Every new deputy commissioner would inherit several project files proposing millions in restoration funds, but those funds were repeatedly diverted elsewhere," he said, adding that the Forest Department's officers bore much of the blame.

"Every budget meant for Kanhatti was eaten up by commissions and kickbacks - for some officers, it had become a side business."

With zero maintenance, the infrastructure eventually collapsed. The once-clear pond turned into a stagnant swamp.

The guesthouse decayed into a shell of its former self. Kanhatti Garden had become a haunting picture of neglect, a metaphor for lost national pride.

However, the tide began to turn when Commissioner Sargodha Division Jahanzeb Awan personally visited the site after learning of its condition.

Refusing to rely on reports, he inspected the garden himself and immediately ordered its restoration.

Taking the commissioner's directive as a personal mission, Deputy Commissioner Khushab Farwah Amir launched a comprehensive and multi-agency rehabilitation drive.

The Forest Department, Highway Authority, District Council and Waste Management Company jointly participated in the project.

Within weeks, the desolate landscape was transformed into a blooming oasis. The garden, now officially named Narwari Garden, has been renovated with walking paths, shaded seating areas, clean drinking water, modern lighting, a prayer area, and a refreshment zone.

Educationist Malik Shahzad Awan described the project as "a story of administrative willpower."

He said that Khushab's citizens finally had a reason for hope after years of despair.

"When the intent is sincere and leadership is determined, even the most broken dreams can be rebuilt," he remarked.

A six-member committee has been formed to ensure Narwari Garden's long-term maintenance, while dedicated staff have been assigned for cleaning and upkeep.