Sunday, December 6, 2009

Warnings and Dangers for tourists

Simply I would say is that dangers associated with all mines exists here as well. When I was getting my tickets, the man at the counter asked me for my ID. At first I retorted that do I look like a foreign tourist (wearing my WWF P-Cap, dark glasses, T-Shirt, Jeans, Hiking boots, lugging a backpack, dangling a digital camera, and holding a large mineral water bottle – signs of being alien). But they were checking ID of all entrants.

If you have an extreme fear of closed places and are claustrophobic, it is recommended that you avoid going inside.

People, this is a mine, and the electricity powering the lights inside is being supplied by WAPDA, which is known for frequent power failure. And I did not see any emergency lights anywhere around. I am sure you do not want to be caught inside the mine when this happens. No matter how brave you are, this scenario will scare the hell out of anyone, specially with those 80 feet deep brine solution lakes already portraying an eerie image. Even an atheist will blurt out. Oh! God!

Guides are available at the entrance gate who have flashlights, and do know their way around. Pay extra to take them along. Alternatively, carry a flash light, but will you know which way to go? There are shafts that are taking you deeper inside the mine, and then there are deep brine ponds all around. In total darkness everything looks the same.

Also while entering/exiting the mine, be on a look out for the electric train as the passage is shared..for people walking and for those riding the train.

It is believed that Salt Rock Lamps are natural air ionizers, air purifiers and natural healers. They clean the air through negative ions, I guess something similar to lightning during a thunderstorm. Some also believe that the ions given off by the salt in the mines is a primary cause for curing asthma. How or why has not been scientifically determined. Even PMDC has built an allergy Asthma Resort at this site for this purpose. So asthma sufferers can get first aid if need be.

I'm posting a video just so new aspiring visitors can have a look at the conditions that await them.

Have a safe trip.

3 comments:

  1. that was a considerate piece of writing! i am claustrophobic to some extent so i'd definitely take into account the tips that you mention in your post.
    given the current security situation, do u think the safety measures taken by the khewra admin people are adequate?

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  2. Yes Rameen. The authorities at Khewra have been constantly in touch with the local Jhelum police and other security forces in order to avoid any untoward incident at the mines. Also, we've arranged for special instrumentals to be played inside the mine to soothe our claustrophobic visitors :)

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  3. An Anemone or Clematis plant's juice can cause a rash. When pruning them, it's a good idea to wear gloves.

    But that doesn't answer the real question, at hand.

    But do you understand?

    Did i understand?

    No, A fleepting glimpse. Yes, Hardees.

    Extacy.

    You are there.. i feel. you.

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