The 9th edition of Cholistan Jeep Rally came to end after a successful triumph in the deserts of Cholistan. The mega event organized by Tourism Development Corporation of Pakistan (TDCP) isunique in its own kind, being the pioneer in motor sports, was attended by people from all over the country. The location itself had lot of attractions to offer within few miles for the visitors. From the Royal palaces of the State of Bahawalpur, that speaks of its glorious past, now maintained by troops of Pakistan Army. Among all only one “Noor Mahal” is opened for public nowadays. Interestingly, a commoner is not allowed to capture the beauty of these places using any kind of photo or video cameras but there is no restriction on taking photos using your mobile handsets.
Another nearby attraction of the Jeep Rally venue is Derawar Fort, a heritage site from the pre-colonial era of Abbasi Rulers. Sadly, like many sites, Derawar Fort also lacks proper attention from our Government institutions and most of its part has turned into ruins. Like rose in the desert Abbasi Masjid stands right beside the Derawar Fort. Although it still stands in good shape, thanks to the area faithful, but like Derawar Fort it also awaits nigh-e-karam from the concerned authorities.
The Jeep Rally event started with qualifying rounds where the participants compete saddled in the seats showing skills & techniques of super horse-powered vehicles. Qualifying rounds were followed by a cultural event where local artists enthralled a packed audience.
The next day brought the Final rounds where once again the participants appeared in their full glory competing for the highest awards. The roaring sounds from the engines and power thrusts excited both the audience and the participants. The exciting race ended with the victory to the favourites and a finish to this spectacular event.
We are in dire need of such activities to bring out positivity among ourselves. The recently concluded Festivals and Festivities under provincial banners are a good way to divert attention of a common man from the un-common problems one faces every day. I urge our authorities to come forward and provide necessary assistance to make this event an annual occurrence. The timely completion ofconnecting road is urgently required to access the event site, which is still under construction since last year. Also more emphasis should be paid on providing adequate security with proper barriers along-side the main track. Due to open field many spectators were witnessed walking and driving their vehicles very near the track which could have been resulted in a serious incident.
Also by selling the event sponsorship to MNCs and local businesses, great revenue can be earned that can then be spent on betterment of the event. The food quality, price and hygienic conditions are another area that needs attention, besides provision of proper rest rooms for a crowd in thousands. It was an excellent first step, though in its 9th year already, by TDCP and their event managers and if can be standardised as per international level it can also attract international participants and can portray Pakistan’s positive image to the world and specially among motor sports lovers.
