Kashmir Diaries

Poonch district was a district of princely state of Jammu and Kashmir, which is currently divided into Pakistan administrated Azad Kashmir and Indian administrated Jammu and Kashmir.The Pakistani controlled part is Poonch division and its capital is Rawalakot and Indian controlled part is Poonch district and its capital is Poonch. Ancient history: Poonch has witnessed many historical era.  In 326BC , when Alexander the Great invaded the lower Jehlum belt (  known as Abhisara in ancient times) to fight with Porus. At that time this region was known as dravabhisar, inhabited by Drava and Abisara Tribe. In 6th centuary AD , famous Chinese traveler Huien Tsang passed through this area.He wrote that this area was famous for graphics, fine tea (musloom) and good horses. In 850AD , Poonch became sovereign state ruled by Raja Nar (Horse trader). According to Rajtrangani, Raja Trilochan Pal of Poonch gave a tough fight toMehmood Ghaznavi, who tried to invade Poonch. Medieval era: In 15...

 Azad Jammu and Kashmir (AJK) is a region endowed with abundant natural resources, particularly its fast-flowing rivers and hilly terrain, making it a prime area for hydropower generation. With the growing global emphasis on renewable energy, AJK’s hydropower potential is more relevant than ever. Its capacity to generate clean and sustainable energy not only meets local needs but also supports broader energy goals for the region. This blog explores AJK's hydropower resources, major projects, benefits, challenges, and future prospects. A Natural Haven for Hydropower Development AJK is blessed with a network of rivers that originate from glaciers in the Himalayas and Karakoram mountain ranges. These rivers, with their consistent flow and steep gradients, create ideal conditions for hydropower generation. Some of the major rivers in the region include: Jhelum River: The Jhelum River is a lifeline for energy production in AJK, powering multiple hydropower projects and serving as ...

  The Trigger: A Controversial Ordinance Recent public rights movement in Azad Jammu and Kashmir (AJK), have been sparked by the imposition of a controversial presidential ordinance, which imposes severe restrictions on public protests. This ordinance mandates prior government approval for public gatherings and threatens violators with imprisonment and heavy fines. Protesters have condemned the ordinance as a tool to suppress civil liberties and stifle dissent, likening it to colonial measures.   According to the ordinance, individuals planning any gathering or assembly in AJK must submit a written request to the district magistrate (competent authority) at least seven days prior to the event. The authority is required to respond to the request within a minimum of 48 hours and a maximum of seven days, taking into account the law and order situation and security clearance reports. If approval is granted, the gathering or protest will be limited to designated locations and must ...

Azad Kashmir, a region located in the northern part of Pakistan, is known for its breathtaking natural beauty, including lush green valleys, snow-capped mountains, and serene lakes. Here are some of the top tourist destinations in Azad Kashmir: Rawalakot:    Known as the "Pearl Valley," Rawalakot is famous for its picturesque landscapes, pleasant weather, and lush greenery. Popular spots include:           1. Toli Pir: A hilltop offering panoramic views of the surrounding valleys and mountains.           2.Banjosa Lake: A man-made lake surrounded by pine trees, ideal for picnics and boating . 2. Neelum Valley:    - Often referred to as the "Blue Gem of Pakistan," Neelum Valley is one of the most beautiful spots in Azad Kashmir, with its cascading rivers, dense forests, and mountainous landscapes. Key locations include:       - Keran: A scenic village on the banks of the Neelum River, perfect for...

  A Comprehensive Guide to Azad Kashmir: History, Culture, and Geography Azad Kashmir, often referred to as "the paradise on earth," is a region located in the northern part of Pakistan, nestled between the majestic mountains of the Himalayas and the lush green valleys of the region. Known for its scenic beauty, historical significance, and cultural richness, Azad Kashmir offers much more than just stunning landscapes. In this comprehensive guide, we will delve into the history, culture, and geography of this beautiful region. History of Azad Kashmir The history of Azad Kashmir is intricately linked with the broader Kashmir conflict and the partition of India in 1947. The region has been a focal point of geopolitical tensions between India and Pakistan, but it also has a rich local history, which predates these modern conflicts. Ancient and Medieval History Before the partition, the region of Azad Kashmir was part of the princely state of Jammu and Kashmir. This state had a c...