Kirana Hills Sargodha

A Historical and Strategic Landmark

Kirana Hills Sargodha is a significant geographical and historical landmark in Pakistan. Located in the Sargodha district of Punjab, these rocky hills hold strategic importance due to their role in defense and military activities. Known as “Black Mountains” because of their brownish terrain, Kirana Hills is a place of great interest for historians, geologists, and tourists alike.

History of Kirana Hills

The history of Kirana Hills dates back to the colonial era when British geologists conducted extensive studies on its rock formations. The hills gained prominence in the 1970s when the Pakistan Army Corps of Engineers began using them for military and nuclear research purposes. In the 1980s and 1990s, Kirana Hills served as a site for subcritical nuclear testing, making it a vital location for Pakistan’s defense strategy.

Location of Kirana Hills

Kirana Hills is located in the Sargodha district of Punjab, Pakistan. The hills are approximately 14 miles from the city of Sargodha and stretch over an area of 100 square miles (260 km2). Their highest peak reaches 1,050 feet (320 meters), while the average peak stands at 600 feet (180 meters). The hills lie between the town of Rabwah and Sargodha city, forming part of the Mushaf Air Force Base.

Geological Features

The Kirana Hills are remnants of Precambrian igneous activity and consist mainly of hardened shales, slates, and quartzites. Geologists have also found traces of uranium and other minerals in the region. The hills are known for their unique composition, different from other mountain ranges in Pakistan.

Climate and Wildlife

The climate of Kirana Hills is extreme, with summer temperatures reaching up to 50°C (122°F) and winter temperatures dropping to 0°C (32°F). The region is covered in grasslands and is home to various wildlife species, including wild boars.

Kirana Hills and Military Significance

In the 1970s, Kirana Hills was acquired by the Ministry of Defense (MoD) and became a key site for radar and weapons testing. It played a crucial role in Pakistan’s nuclear research program. The area still houses a Pakistan Air Force radar station and remains an active military site.

Tourist Attraction

Despite its military significance, Kirana Hills has become a point of interest for tourists. Its rocky terrain and historical importance attract visitors, and the government has partially opened the site for public exploration.

Table: Key Information About Kirana Hills

Feature	Details
Location	Sargodha, Punjab, Pakistan
Area	100 square miles (260 km2)
Highest Peak	1,050 feet (320 meters)
Average Peak	600 feet (180 meters)
Climate	Extreme (50°C in summer, 0°C in winter)
Military Use	Radar and weapons testing, nuclear research
Tourist Attraction	Yes, partially open

Kirana Hills on Google Maps

For those interested in exploring Kirana Hills, it can be located using Google Maps. Simply search for “Kirana Hills Sargodha” to get directions and satellite imagery of this historically significant region.

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