Islamabad

Gate of Pharwala Fort toward the Swaan stream

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Mausoleum of Meher Ali Shah by Balochlens

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Shah Allah Ditta caves 2

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Saidpur 1

Islamabad Metro Bus

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Islamabad from Satellite

Islamabad is the capital city of Pakistan, located within the federal Islamabad Capital Territory. With a population of over 1 million, it is the 9th largest city in Pakistan. Islamabad is known for its high standard of living, safety, and abundant greenery. The city was built during the 1960s to replace Karachi as Pakistan's capital in an effort to distribute political and economic activity more evenly across the country. It is a well-planned city divided into sectors and zones, designed by the Greek architect Constantinos Apostolou Doxiadis. Islamabad is a significant political, cultural, and business center in Pakistan and hosts numerous foreign embassies, government buildings, and headquarters of various organizations.

History

The area that is now Islamabad has a history that dates back to the Stone Age, with evidence of prehistoric cultures. The region has been part of various empires and dynasties, including the Achaemenids, the Gupta Empire, and the Delhi Sultanate. The modern city of Islamabad was conceived in the late 1950s, and construction began in the 1960s. It was chosen for its climate, location, and logistical suitability to serve as the new capital. The city was officially inaugurated in 1967, and since then, it has expanded rapidly.

Geography

Islamabad is situated at the edge of the Potohar Plateau, at the foot of the Margalla Hills. Its climate is a humid subtropical climate, with five seasons: Winter, Spring, Summer, Monsoon, and Autumn. The city is known for its greenery, with many parks and forests, including the Margalla Hills National Park and Shakarparian Park.

Economy

The economy of Islamabad is diverse, with a large presence of government services, information technology, telecommunications, and educational institutions. It is home to the Pakistan Stock Exchange's Islamabad branch, several software technology parks, and numerous national and international organizations. The city has one of the highest literacy rates in Pakistan and is home to many universities and research institutions.

Culture

Islamabad's culture is a mix of traditional Pakistani culture and modernity. The city hosts several cultural festivals throughout the year, including the Lok Mela and the National Book Festival. It is also home to the Pakistan National Council of the Arts and the National Art Gallery. The city's dining scene includes a variety of cuisines, reflecting the diverse population of Islamabad.

Education

Islamabad has a strong educational infrastructure, with several top-ranking universities and research institutions, including the Quaid-i-Azam University, the National University of Sciences and Technology (NUST), and the Allama Iqbal Open University. The city also has a wide range of international schools.

Transport

The city is served by the Islamabad International Airport, the largest airport in Pakistan, and has a well-developed road network, including the Islamabad Expressway and the M-1 and M-2 motorways. Public transportation includes the Rawalpindi-Islamabad Metrobus, a bus rapid transit system that connects Islamabad with neighboring Rawalpindi.

See Also

• Rawalpindi
• Capital Territory
• Pakistan