A Detailed Overview of Dandot RS: From the Perspective of Ehsan Khandwa

Dandot RS, also known as Dandot, is a historical place located on the border of Jhelum and Chakwal districts. This region holds significant importance due to its unique history and culture.

Coal Mining and the Establishment of the Railway Station

Dandot gained early prominence because of the coal mines in the area. A 10-kilometer-long narrow-gauge (610 mm) railway line was laid to transport coal, which was a major trade activity. This railway station, locally referred to as "Kala Tushan," was established in 1905. The name originated from the coal-rich mountains, where coal was extracted and then transported via trolleys to be sent for trade.

Establishment of the Cement Factory and Industrial Development

In the 1930s, Seth Ram Krishna Dalmia established a cement factory in the Dandot area, marking the beginning of industrial development in the region. Prior to this, the area was known mainly for its coal mines, with a small mining population and an economy dependent on mining. However, with the establishment of the factory, a new era began. Industrial development not only created job opportunities but also strengthened the local economy.

With the factory's establishment, the population of the area grew significantly. Hindu families, who were already present, became more stable due to employment and business opportunities in the factory. Over time, people from other regions also migrated here, furthering the region’s development.

Shereen Abad Dandot RS: A Milestone in Educational Development

Shereen Abad Dandot RS (GES Shereen Abad Dandot RS) was established in 1945 during Seth Ram Krishna Dalmia’s tenure to meet the educational needs of the area. This school was an important step in providing quality education to the children of factory workers. Initially, the school was managed by Dalmia and became a landmark in the educational field of the region.

Later, when Seth Dalmia sold the factory to a Parsi businessman, Seth Manak, he named the area "Shereen Abad" after his daughter. Although this name did not gain widespread use locally and the area continued to be known as Dandot, it remains in government records.

Today, the Government Girls and Boys Schools are still known as "Shereen Abad Dandot RS" (GES Shereen Abad Dandot RS), maintaining their historical significance. These institutions have not only played a pivotal role in education but also contributed to the cultural and social development of the region.

The Changing Landscape of Dandot After Partition

After the partition of British India in 1947, Dandot became part of Pakistan, which brought significant changes to its industrial and social conditions. The cement factory, initially owned by Seth Ram Krishna Dalmia, continued operations under his ownership. However, following the 1965 Indo-Pak war, financial problems and escalating tensions between the two countries forced Seth Dalmia to sell the factory.

The factory was bought by a Parsi businessman, Seth Manak, who renamed it "Pakistan Progressive Cement Industries" (PPCI) and also changed the name of the area to "Shereen Abad" in honor of his daughter. Although the name "Shereen Abad" never gained much popularity locally, it still exists in official records and educational institutions.

The government schools for boys and girls, known as Shereen Abad Dandot RS (Shereen Abad Dandot RS), serve as a reminder of Seth Manak's daughter and reflect the social and cultural impact of the post-partition changes that shaped the region’s identity.

Nationalization in 1974 and the Establishment of National Cement Industry

The 1970s in Pakistan were marked by industrial and economic changes. Under Prime Minister Zulfikar Ali Bhutto’s government, several private industries and enterprises were nationalized to bring the economy under state control for the welfare of the public.

Pakistan Progressive Cement Industries (PPCI), which was previously owned by Seth Manak and operating under the name "Pakistan Progressive Cement Industries," was also nationalized in 1974 and came under government control. The factory’s name was changed to "National Cement Industry."

Effects of Nationalization

After nationalization, significant changes were made to the factory's management structure. The factory, once privately owned, was now under government control, meaning that policymaking, financial decisions, and management were all in the hands of the government.

1. Administrative Changes:

The management of the factory was taken over by government officials who operated based on state instructions rather than private sector decisions. However, some experts argue that the performance of the factory suffered due to the limited industrial experience of these government officials.

2. Labor Conditions:

Post-nationalization, there were improvements in workers' rights and facilities. Better wages, benefits, and working conditions were provided to the workers. However, over time, bureaucratic complexities and resource shortages diminished the effectiveness of these improvements.

3. Production Capacity:

In the early years of nationalization, the factory’s production capacity was impacted. Administrative decisions, which were often delayed, led to disruptions in production.

4. Impact on the Local Economy:

The nationalization of the factory benefited the local economy in some ways. Employment opportunities were increased for local residents, and attention was given to improving infrastructure around the factory. However, as time passed, the government’s limited investment and distribution of resources slowed down the pace of development.

Decline of the National Cement Industry

The decline of the National Cement Industry began to be evident in the 1980s and 1990s. Due to administrative issues, lack of resources, and government neglect, the factory's performance deteriorated. Finally, in 1994, the factory was shut down due to financial losses and government decisions.

Historical Significance

The nationalization in 1974 and the establishment of the National Cement Industry had a profound impact on the Dandot area. It not only tells the story of the local economy's fluctuations but also reflects the effects of Pakistan's industrial and economic decisions. Even today, this factory, with its history, achievements, and failures, remains a part of Dandot’s story.

Dandot Cement Factory: A Milestone in Modern Industrial Development

Dandot Cement Factory, established in 1982, proved to be an important milestone in the industrial development of the area. Initially known as DCL (Dandot Cement Limited), it is now known as Dandot Cement Factory.

This new factory symbolized modern technology and better production in the area, but it has faced difficulties at various times. Due to administrative problems, financial crises, and other factors, the factory experienced declines, affecting its production and workers' lives. However, despite all these challenges, the factory has ensured its survival and remains operational today.

The Dandot Cement Factory continues to play a key role in the local economy. It not only provides employment opportunities for the local population but is also an important part of Pakistan’s cement industry. The current state of the factory is a testament to the fact that despite difficulties, it has managed to retain its identity and continue its journey toward growth.

Regional Division and Population

The current population of Dandot RS is mostly located to the south of the railway station, while to the north, both cement factories are situated: the old National Cement Factory and the new Dandot Cement Factory.

There are various factions within the population. To the west lies the Choran area, which includes the DCCL Colony, NCI Colony, and other neighborhoods such as Hafizonwala, Sheikhonwala, and Dera Sakhi. To the south, there is the Kliwal area, which includes the Sardhi Mohalla, Dhoke Shafi Mohalla, Muhammadiya Colony, and Private Colony areas.

This information highlights the historical and cultural significance of the region. Today, this area is officially and publicly known as Dandot RS, and it is home to over a thousand households.

Factionalism and Social Division

Various communities inhabit the Dandot RS area, including Chaudhary, Raja, Malik, Sheikh, Butt, Jatt, Khandowa, Atral, Dar Khan, Lohar, Muslim Sheikh, Syed, Shah, and other tribes. These communities play an important role in local politics and social relationships. The basis of these factions is often rooted in the influence of the community and their role in local politics. There are both alliances and rivalries among these communities, which sometimes lead to conflicts, but they also highlight the cultural diversity and social structure of the region.

This article covers important information about the area and its local culture, compiled by Chaudhry Muhammad Ihsan Khandwa with the help of his elders. The aim is to preserve the historical significance and cultural heritage of the region and pass it on to future generations, so that our traditions, values, and history remain alive.