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 aimed at introducing modern agricultural technology to local farmers through a public broadcasting organisation. 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 a shortage of basic amenities have long been major challenges. Residents of Khushab have repeatedly voiced concerns about the region being overlooked in development planning. There are, however, signs of change, with development initiatives and efforts to improve roads and educational institutions offering renewed hope.
For Soon Valley, the real measure of progress will be whether these efforts translate into better lives for ordinary people. Improved roads, quality education, modern agricultural facilities, employment opportunities and better public services are essential if the valley is to realise its full potential.
Tourism could become another major engine of development. Soon Valley already offers lakes, springs, waterfalls, forests, mountains, orchards, wildlife and historical sites. With proper planning, improvements in roads, accommodation, sanitation, tourist information and recreational facilities could place it firmly on Pakistan’s tourism map.
But development must not come at the expense of the very beauty that attracts visitors. Unplanned construction, pollution and uncontrolled exploitation of forests and wildlife could permanently damage the valley. Tourism must therefore go hand in hand with environmental protection.
Soon Valley is more than a beautiful landscape. It is a blend of history, culture, agriculture, mineral wealth, literature and human potential. Its mountains shelter springs, its soil produces crops, and its communities have produced people who have contributed to Pakistan in fields ranging from literature to law.
The challenge now is to connect this priceless region with the opportunities of the future while preserving its natural character. Its lakes, forests, mountains and fertile lands deserve a prominent place on Pakistan’s tourism and economic map.
Perhaps that is Soon Valley’s greatest promise: its soil produces not only crops, but dreams; and beneath its mountains lie not only minerals, but possibilities.
Soon Valley truly is a priceless gem. The time has come to let the world see it shine.
