SAHIWAL CITY
Sahiwal is a prominent city located in the heart of Punjab, Pakistan. It serves as the administrative capital of the Sahiwal Division. Positioned approximately 180 kilometers south of Lahore, the city had a population of around 2.5 million as per the 2017 Pakistan Census, making it the 14th largest city in Punjab and the 22nd largest in the country.
Historically, the city began as a small village situated along the Karachi-Lahore railway line in 1865. It was originally named Montgomery in honor of Sir Robert Montgomery, who was then the Lieutenant-Governor of Punjab. In 1967, the city's original identity was restored, and it was renamed Sahiwal in tribute to the Sahi clan of the Kharal Rajputs, the native inhabitants of the fertile land nestled between the Ravi and Sutlej rivers.
The region is known for its rich agricultural output. Crops include wheat, cotton, tobacco, legumes, potatoes, and oilseeds. Additionally, Sahiwal is known for its industries, particularly in the production of cotton textiles. Sahiwal is also recognized for the Sahiwal cattle breed, one of the best dairy breeds in Pakistan. The city has seen notable development in recent years, with improvements in education, healthcare, and transportation infrastructure, making it a growing urban center in central Punjab.