Where is the Kirana Hills Located?

Why is Kirana Hills in News?

Kirana Hills in Pakistan are in the news due to Operation Sindoor of India. It is known for being a remote and restricted area. In the past, it has been linked to secret military and nuclear activities. The hills are spread over a large area and are surrounded by army and air force facilities.

Location of Kirana Hills

The Kirana Hills is a rocky mountain range located in Sargodha District, Punjab, Pakistan. Known as the ‘‘Black Mountains’‘ due to its brownish landscape, it plays a crucial role in Pakistan’s defense strategy and has a unique geological history. The hills are known for their diverse wildlife and challenging climate.

Name of the Hills

The Kirana Hills were named after a small village that once existed in the area. The villagers later moved to nearby town like Rabwah (now Chanab Nagar) and Sargodha. The name ”Kirana” reflects the local connection to the area before it became part of defense oeprations.

Topography and Geology of the Kirana Hills

The Kirana Hills are a range of rocky hills located about 80 miles (130 km) from the Salt Range. The highest peak of the Kirana Hills reaches 1,050 feet (320 meters), while the average peak height is about 600 feet (180 meters). These hills cover around 100 square miles (260 square kilometers) and stretch about 12 miles (19 km) in length.

The geology of the Kirana Hills is unique. The rocks are mostly hardened shales and slates, with some quartzites and layers of hematite, rhyolites, tuff and diabase. In the early 20th century, British geologists studied these formations and noted their distinct black color. In the 1970s, the Geological Survey of Pakistan discovered uranium deposits in the area, leading to mining activities.

Climate and Wildlife of the Kirana Hills

The climate in the Kirana Hills can be extreme. Summers are hot, with temperatures reaching 50ºC (122ºF), while winters can be very cold, with temperatures dropping to 0ºC (32ºF). The region has a steppe-like landscape with plenty of grassland. Wild boars are common in the area, often found in the vicinity of the hills.

Strategic Importance of the Kirana Hills

In 1970, the Military of Defense(MoD) acquired the Kirana Hills for military purposes. The Pakistan Air Force set up a radar station, which is still operational today. This station is part of the Mushaf Air Force Base in Sargodha.

The Kirana Hills was also used for potential nuclear testing. In the 1970s and 1980s, the Pakistan Army Corps of Engineers began digging tunnels in the hills as part of their efforts to prepare for nuclear testing. These tunnels were designed to withstand the explosion of nuclear devices. Some of these tunnels were even used to house Chinese M-11 missiles at one point.