Country | Pakistan |
Population | 3204704 |
Area | 1,330 km2 (512 sq mi) |
Time Zone | UTC+05:00 (PKT) |
Coordinates | 31.41554, 73.08969 |
Highest elevation | 186 m (610 ft) |
City Gallery
City Description
Faisalabad, formerly known as Lyallpur, is the second-largest city and a major industrial center in the Pakistani province of Punjab. It is a bustling metropolis and the third most populous city in Pakistan, with an estimated population of 3.7 million as of 2023. The city is located in central Punjab’s Rachna Do’āb, between the Ravi and Chenab rivers, making it the second-largest Punjabi-speaking city in the world.
Historically, Faisalabad was one of the largest villages in Punjab and one of the first planned cities within British India. It was named Lyallpur in honor of Sir James Lyall, the then Lieutenant Governor of the Punjab, and was developed as a center for agriculture and trade. The city’s grid-like layout was designed to facilitate trade and movement, and it quickly grew into a significant urban center.
Geographically, Faisalabad covers a total area of 5,856 square kilometers (2,261 square miles), while the area managed by the Faisalabad Development Authority (FDA) is 1,326 square kilometers (512 square miles). Its central location in Punjab, along with its extensive network of roads, railways, and air transportation, has established Faisalabad as a major industrial and distribution hub in the region. The city is often referred to as the “Manchester of Pakistan” due to its extensive textile industry.
Economically, Faisalabad is one of Pakistan’s wealthiest and most industrialized cities. As of 2013, the city’s GDP was estimated at $43 billion, with projections indicating a rise to $87 billion by 2025, growing at a rate of 5.7%. Faisalabad contributes over 10 percent to Punjab’s GDP, with an average annual GDP (nominal) of $20.5 billion. The city’s economy is predominantly driven by agriculture and industry, with textiles being the hallmark. The textile industry includes spinning, weaving, dyeing, and finishing, as well as garment manufacturing. Faisalabad also has significant chemical, food processing, and steel industries.
Culturally, Faisalabad is a melting pot of diverse traditions and communities. The city hosts various cultural and religious festivals, reflecting its rich heritage. The Faisalabad Clock Tower, also known as Ghanta Ghar, is a prominent landmark and a symbol of the city’s historical significance. The city’s vibrant markets, such as the Eight Bazaars radiating from the clock tower, offer a wide array of goods, from traditional textiles to modern electronics.
Faisalabad is also known for its educational institutions, including the University of Agriculture, which is one of the leading agricultural universities in Asia. Other notable institutions include the Government College University and the National Textile University. These institutions contribute to the city’s skilled workforce and support its industrial and agricultural sectors.
In terms of infrastructure, Faisalabad has developed significantly over the years. The city is well-connected by road and rail, with the Faisalabad International Airport facilitating air travel. The city has also seen improvements in its healthcare and public services, with several hospitals, clinics, and public health initiatives serving the population.
In conclusion, Faisalabad is a dynamic and thriving city that plays a crucial role in Pakistan’s economy and culture. Its strategic location, industrial prowess, rich history, and cultural diversity make it a key urban center in the Punjab region. As the city continues to grow and evolve, it remains a testament to the resilience and entrepreneurial spirit of its people.
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