The Valiant Baluchestan

Abstract

The Beginning of a 19-Day Journey to Baluchestan — 1390 (2011–2012)

The route through Kermanshah, Isfahan, Kerman, Zahedan, and Zabol was incredibly exciting and captivating for us, especially as it was our first time entering Sistan and Baluchestan Province. Yet no matter how much I might tell you about the sheer distance, the worn-out buses, the constant climate changes, and the strange, unfamiliar roads, it would still fall short of conveying the full experience.

If you consider yourself a traveler and have never seen Baluchestan, perhaps you should reconsider the title. This place is a different Iran altogether, and once you step into it, you will fall in love forever—with its land and its incomparable people.

When we finally reached Kerman, I said to Ammar, “Ahh, we’re almost there—thank God!” But believe me, the distance from Kerman to Zabol felt as long as the entire journey from Kermanshah to Kerman itself. The roads were straight and endlessly uncurved, making the drive extremely—and relentlessly—exhausting for both the driver and the passengers

The Urban Environment of Zabol and Its Social and Economic Conditions

Zabol is one of the active and vibrant cities of Baluchestan. It has lively markets, and it is clear that the population is engaged in economic activity at a relatively steady and healthy level. This vitality, however, is largely concentrated in the city center. The surrounding villages are not in the same condition and suffer severely from a serious lack of basic infrastructure and facilities.

Contrary to the common perception of those who view Baluchestan from the outside, Zabol is not entirely Sunni. Nearly half of its population is Shi’a

Rural Conditions Around Zabol

The villages surrounding Zabol—like many other rural areas across Sistan and Baluchestan—live under extremely deep and severe deprivation. The absence of basic healthcare and welfare facilities, the lack of safe drinking water, electricity and road infrastructure problems, and hundreds of other shortcomings are issues one could speak about for hours.

Yet despite all this, in my view, the Baluch people—living with the least resources and minimal means—are among the finest hosts in our beloved Iran. Truly, having friends from this great nation is an honor of immense and lasting value

Mount Khajeh

Mount Khajeh—also known as Mount Oshid, Mount Rostam, Takht-e Belqeys, and the Rolling Mountain—is one of the many names associated with this astonishing ancient site.

The site was registered as a national heritage monument in 1345 (1966–1967). Unfortunately, it is rapidly deteriorating and facing serious destruction. Mount Khajeh was once referred to as a Persepolis built of adobe and clay. It is a historical complex featuring beautiful corridors and defensive walls, much of which has sadly been destroyed.

In ancient times, Lake Hamun once flowed vibrantly beside Mount Khajeh, but over the years it has tragically dried up

Saravan

It’s interesting to know that the very first place in our beloved Iran where the sun rises is Saravan—often called the Sunrise of Iran.
This city has a history stretching back several millennia; you can observe archaeological remains dating back at least seven thousand years here. So take your time exploring Saravan carefully—don’t miss it.