Gwatar Bay to Sir Creek: History and Memoirs

This book gives the readers an overview of the history of Makran coast from the ancient days of Gedrosia, Gwadar under Omani control, concerted efforts for its retrocession to Pakistan, to the more recent days of CPEC. It highlights key features of development of Gwadar deep-water port, its importance for Pakistan and focused attention needed to benefit from our coastal treasure. The book describes the features of the coast right from Gwatar Bay at the border with Iran to Sir Creek at the border with India. Vice Admiral Iftikhar Ahmed Rao (Retd) recounts his adventures and personal experiences from his early days as a Lieutenant on-board ships and flying helicopters from and along the arid and hitherto uninhabitable terrain of Makran coast bordering Iran, to his days as flag officer quite literally ‘shoveling’ mud, patrolling and marching with the Marines through the inhospitable marshes in the creek area bordering India and by sharing his experiences and lessons learnt through facing challenges while serving on the coast. The Admiral also gives the readers a view through his lens on how he has seen the coastal areas benefit from naval deployment, naval nation-building projects along the coast and highlights further opportunities for development. Read more