Hidden Gem of Samungli Airbase, Detect Fresh Air in Quetta
September 10, 2024
As a citizen of Quetta, I’ve always yearned for a place that embodies cleanliness, safety, and serenity—a stark contrast to the bustling streets and crowded neighborhoods I navigate daily. This longing was fulfilled during my visit to Samungli Airbase, a vital yet often overlooked military installation nestled just 10 kilometers southwest of Quetta.
From the moment I set foot on the airbase, it was like stepping into another world. The air was crisp and clean, a refreshing departure from the dust and exhaust fumes that hang heavy over the city. The meticulously manicured lawns, with their lush green grass and vibrant flowers, provided a visual feast that was a world away from the concrete jungle I had just left behind. Towering above these pristine grounds were statues of national heroes, including a prominent figure of Quaid-e-Azam Muhammad Ali Jinnah, the father of the nation. These monuments stood as silent sentinels, a reminder of the airbase’s deep-rooted connection to Pakistan’s history and its ongoing commitment to national security.
As I ventured further, I was struck by the smooth, wide roads that crisscrossed the airbase. These roads, devoid of the potholes and traffic snarls that plague Quetta, were a joy to walk upon. The absence of noise and chaos was almost surreal—no blaring horns, no throngs of people jostling for space. Instead, there was a tranquil silence, occasionally punctuated by the distant hum of a jet engine or the rhythmic march of soldiers in training.
It was on these very roads that I witnessed a sight that would be unimaginable in Quetta: young girls riding their bicycles freely, their laughter echoing in the open air. This simple scene, so ordinary yet so extraordinary, underscored the stark difference between life inside the airbase and the reality outside its gates. The secure environment of the airbase, with its controlled access and vigilant guards, allowed these children—and their families—a sense of freedom and safety that is hard to come by in the city.
For me, a photojournalist always on the lookout for compelling stories, this was a treasure trove of moments waiting to be captured. My camera clicked away as I documented the serene surroundings, the disciplined yet relaxed atmosphere, and the juxtaposition of military might with everyday leisure. Among the highlights was a personal milestone: riding a bike on my own. In Quetta, the very idea of cycling through the streets often feels like a distant dream, fraught with safety concerns and societal judgments. But here, on the smooth, secure roads of Samungli Airbase, that dream became a reality—a small victory, but a meaningful one.
Samungli Airbase, established in 1956, is more than just a military facility; it is a cornerstone of Pakistan’s defense strategy. The airbase houses fighter jets, transport planes, and helicopters, all ready to respond to threats at a moment’s notice. It also hosts the prestigious Pakistan Air Force Academy, where young cadets are rigorously trained to become the next generation of officers. The airbase’s strategic location near the Afghan border adds to its importance, making it a linchpin in the country’s defense network.
But beyond its military significance, Samungli Airbase offers a glimpse into what life could be like—a life where order, cleanliness, and security are the norm, not the exception. The contrast between the airbase and Quetta city is stark and thought-provoking. While Quetta struggles with issues of infrastructure, pollution, and safety, Samungli Airbase stands as a beacon of what is possible when these challenges are met with determination and resources.
My visit to Samungli Airbase was not just a trip to a military facility; it was an eye-opening experience that highlighted the disparities between life inside and outside its walls. It left me with a renewed desire to see the same standards of safety, security, and cleanliness extended to the city I call home. As I left the airbase, I couldn’t help but dream of a future where Quetta, too, could offer its residents the same sense of peace and well-being that I found within the confines of Samungli.
In a world where the lines between civilian and military life often blur, Samungli Airbase serves as a reminder of what can be achieved with the right focus and commitment. It’s a place where dreams of safety and security are not just aspirations, but reality—a reality that, I hope, one day extends beyond the airbase’s gates to the streets of Quetta and beyond.
This version adds more detail and vivid imagery, giving readers a clearer sense of your experience at Samungli Airbase. It also emphasizes the contrast between the airbase and Quetta, making the story more engaging and thought-provoking.
