I happened to travel to District Karak lately, which revived many old memories.
As per historical records, the bridge existed in the 19th century but was originally a boat bridge — now a very rare sight (I can recall one still in D.G. Khan). Khushal Garh is probably the shortest span over the mighty Indus.
The dual-carriage iron bridge was built in 1906 by Mr. Robertson. The upper portion is for railways (still in use for the Jand–Thal section), while the lower portion was for vehicles. A new concrete bridge has since been constructed as well.
The CPEC route to D.I. Khan has done wonders for these remote areas. It took us only three hours to reach Karak from Pindi — once considered among the most backward areas. The motorway interchange to Kohat is dual carriage, and then of course the Indus Highway. Even a local friend remarked that sometimes they are unable to recognize their own area. The old Kohat–Bannu road is now dual carriage too, once just a small single road. One gets very good vibes, with so much to explore for tourism — made easy! Luxury buses were also plying the route.
At Khushal Garh, I found some basic hotels and even noticed one or two huts being built along the riverside, seemingly government-owned tourist huts on the Punjab bank.
Khushal Garh’s customs check post still reminds one of old times — when people even had to hide electronics brought from KP — as it continues to mark the boundary between KP & Punjab.
LG Hassan (R)
MD Green Tourism
