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The Hattian Bala District, located in Pakistan-administered Azad Kashmir, is a relatively new district established in 2009. Previously part of the Muzaffarabad District, Hattian Bala was the region’s administrative centre. Located within the disputed Kashmir territory, the district offers a glimpse into this contested area’s scenic beauty and rich history. For more information, keep scrolling.
The Hattian Bala District is located within Pakistan-administered Azad Kashmir, a region claimed by both India and Pakistan. Established in 2009, the district centres around Hattian Bala, 40 kilometres from Muzaffarabad district, the capital of Azad Kashmir. The Jhelum River flows beside the city, adding to the region’s natural beauty.
Reaching Hattian Bala requires navigating some of Pakistan’s most stunning mountainous terrain. Here’s a breakdown of the ways to get to Hattian Bala:
The primary mode of transportation to Hattian Bala is by road. The most convenient route is from Muzaffarabad, the capital of Azad Kashmir, approximately 40 kilometres away. The streets are well-maintained and offer scenic views of the Himalayas. You can hire a taxi or car from Muzaffarabad or even rent one from Islamabad and make a road trip, taking in the sights along the way.
The closest airport to Hattian Bala is the Islamabad International Airport (ISB), approximately 190 kilometres away. You can take a taxi or rented car from Islamabad for the remainder of the journey to Hattian Bala. Remember that the Islamabad International Airport is domestic, so you must make connecting flights if you travel internationally.
The land now known as Hattian Bala District boasts a history intertwined with the broader Kashmir conflict. Following the first war between India and Pakistan, the region was incorporated into the Uri Tehsil of the Baramulla District within Jammu and Kashmir.
However, with the establishment of a truce, the area’s administrative affiliation shifted to become part of the Muzaffarabad District. This status quo remained for several decades until a more recent chapter unfolded.
In July 2009, the decision was made to establish Hattian Bala as a separate district. This move marked a significant regional change, granting it a distinct administrative identity.
The Hattian Bala District is strategically located within the Pakistani-administered Azad Kashmir territory. Bordered to the north and east by two districts of Indian-administered Jammu and Kashmir, it sits amidst contested territory. To the south, the district neighbours Bagh District and Muzaffarabad District.
The region is characterised by rugged mountainous terrain and pockets of plains along the Jhelum River characterises. This waterway cuts through the district northwestward upon entering from the Line of Control (LOC) at Chakothi.
This geographical characteristic, along with the fast-flowing nature of the Jhelum River, contributes to the district’s significant hydroelectric potential. Hattian Bala boasts several hydroelectric power stations, including those in Kathai, Leepa, and Sharian.
The district encompasses various valleys, including Leepa Valley, Khalana Chham, and Ghail, adding to its scenic beauty. With a population of roughly 230,529 people, Hattian Bala offers a glimpse into the lives of those residing in this particular corner of the Kashmir region.
The Hattian Bala District’s economy leans heavily on its rural character. With a staggering 90% of the population residing in rural areas, agriculture, livestock rearing, and forestry form most residents’ subsistence backbone.
However, a unique aspect emerges when considering the district’s financial stability. Many families benefit from remittances sent by members who have migrated abroad for work, particularly to the Middle East, the United Kingdom, and the United States.
The district’s geography plays a significant role in its economic landscape. The primarily hilly and mountainous terrain, punctuated by plains along the Jehlum River, presents challenges and opportunities.
The fast-flowing nature of the Jhelum River has been harnessed to generate hydroelectric power through stations located at Kathai, Leepa, and Sharian. This potential for clean energy production offers a promising avenue for future economic development.
Despite its rural character, Hattian Bala boasts a variety of valleys that contribute to its natural beauty, including Leepa Valley, Khalana Chham, and Ghail. These scenic landscapes hold the potential to attract tourism, another sector that could contribute to the district’s economic diversification.
The linguistic tapestry of Hattian Bala District reflects the region’s rich cultural heritage. Pahari, a group of languages spoken in the foothills of the Himalayas, is the native tongue of roughly half the population.
About a third of the inhabitants speak Gujari, another regional language with roots in the Western Himalayas. Kashmiri, spoken by one in six residents, adds another layer to the district’s linguistic landscape. This multilingual environment fosters a unique cultural identity for Hattian Bala.
The Hattian Bala District is organised into three administrative units called tehsils: Chikkar Tehsil, Hattian Bala Tehsil, and Leepa Tehsil. These tehsils serve as the foundation for local governance.
The district council plays a crucial role in further administrative purposes. It comprises 12 union councils, eight of which belong to Constituency No. 5 and four to Constituency No. 6. This structure ensures representation for various parts of the district.
Additionally, Hattian Bala features a municipal committee in the town of Hattian and a town committee in Chikar. These committees handle matters specific to those urban centres.
Overseeing rural development initiatives within the district is the rural development department. It maintains centres in Hattian, Leepa, and Chikar, each led by a project manager. The Assistant Director of LG&RDD Hattian is the overall administrative officer for rural development, ensuring coordinated efforts across these centres.
The educational landscape in Hattian Bala District presents a mixed picture. While ranked 28th out of 148 Pakistani districts in 2015, the district’s ranking for facilities and infrastructure falls much lower at 112th. This suggests a need for improvement in educational resources and buildings.
Limited college options within the district lead many residents to pursue higher education through alternative means. The Allama Iqbal Open University and the AJK University (with campuses in Muzaffarabad, Neelum, and recently, Hattian Bala) offer valuable opportunities for residents seeking degrees.
The Hattian Bala campus focuses on English language, computer science, and business administration, providing relevant skills for the job market.
Leepa Valley and the village of Pahal, located near the Line of Control (LOC). These areas boast high literacy rates, highlighting a strong emphasis on education within these communities.
Private institutions also contribute to the educational offerings in Hattian Bala. The READ Foundation Science Colleges in Hattian Bala and Chenari and the Smart School Hattian Bala provide valuable educational options for students.
While challenges exist, there are positive developments in Hattian Bala’s education sector. Continued investment in infrastructure and resources, alongside the presence of dedicated institutions and universities, paves the way for a brighter future for education in the district.
Hattian Bala District has produced a range of influential figures who have shaped regional and national politics, education, and spiritual life.
Following are some of the FAQs on Hattian Bala.
Pakistan-administered Azad Kashmir, disputed Kashmir territory.
Road from Muzaffarabad or Islamabad Airport (limited public transport).
Rural, agriculture, livestock, remittances, hydroelectric potential.
Pahari, Gujari, Kashmiri.
Limited colleges, AJK & Allama Iqbal Open University, focus on English, computer science, business administration.
This was all about Hattian Bala. For more information, visit Graana blog.
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