Tracing the historical Routes in Pothohar region: Doongi Sar on the Grand Trunk Road

Constructed during the Mughal Empire by the Gakhar Lords, Doongi Sar/Talab in Sohawa Jhelum is a historical site located approximately 8 km northeast of Sohawa town in the Jhelum district. Along the old Grand Trunk Road, about 8 km from the modern-day G.T. Road, stands the old water tank adjacent to a government school. Historians suggest that this water tank dates back to the Mughal period (1526-1857).

Sultan Jalal Khan Gakhar, known for his benevolence, served Emperor Akbar and his son Jahangir. During a famine, he distributed food and money, saving thousands from perishing. Sultan Jalal Khan met his demise in 1028 AH/1618 AD during a military campaign against the Afghans in the trans-Indus region, as recorded in Kai Goharnamah by Raizada Diwan Dhuni Chand.

According to Zaman Khokhar (2004), Sar Jalal Khan was constructed between 1587 and 1588. Kifayat Ali Khan (1938) mentions an inscription that is now buried by sediment. To regulate the water level, a water tunnel was built on the westward side to drain excess water.

Rani Mungo, like other royal Gakkhar women, was known for her philanthropic efforts and construction projects. She is credited with renovating Doongi Sar, one of the five water tanks in the Pothohar region serving travelers along the old G.T. Road.

The local community recounts that the old G.T. Road passed by Sar Jalal Khan, leading to Pakka Sarai in Gujar Khan, Kallar Syedan, and eventually reaching Rawat. Dr. Saifur Rahman Dar (1994) discusses this route in his article, "Caravanserais along the Grand Trunk Road in Pakistan: A Central Asian Legacy," stating that ancient roads branched off from Sar Jalal Khan to Rohtas and Rawat, passing through various landmarks.

 

During my recent visit to Doongi Sar with my friend Immi Gul veteran photographer and heritage researcher, it was observed that the site is now abandoned and in poor condition, almost encroached upon by the adjacent school. It is imperative for relevant authorities to preserve these historical monuments before they deteriorate further and fade into obscurity.