Okara (Punjabi, Urdu: اوکاڑا‎), is the capital city of Okara District in the Punjab province of Pakistan. The name Okara is derived from Okaan, the name of a type of tree. It is the 25th largest city in Pakistan by the population. The city is located southwest of the city of Lahore and Faisalabad is 100 km bypassing away Ravi River. It is known for its agriculture-based economy and cotton mills. The nearest major city to Okara is Sahiwal, formerly known as Montgomery. Pakistan’s military dairy farms, known for its cheese, are situated in Okara. Pul Dhool near Abdulla Sugar Mill is a town in district Okara. Pul Dhool is on Hujra Chunian road. From Hujra Shah Muqeem 9KM and from Chunian 17KM.These farms were established before the creation of Pakistan in 1947.

Climate

The climate of Okara is usually warm and dry. The coldest months are December to February, when temperatures may drop to 3 °C (37 °F), with moderate rainfall. The hottest months are May to July, when temperatures may reach 45 °C (113 °F). The annual average rainfall in the city is approximately 509 millimeters (20.0 in).

History

Okara is a relatively new agricultural city; during the period of British rule there was a forest of Okaan where the city has been rebuilt, and from this, the name of the city was derived. During British rule, the area was part of the Montgomery District and contained a large saltpeter refinery. There are many textile mills in Okara. The predominantly Muslim population supported the Muslim League and the Pakistan Movement. After the independence of Pakistan in 1947, the Muslim refugees settled in the Okara District. In 1982, the city became the headquarters of the newly created Okara District. Okara has had a railway line since 1892.

Okara is known for its cattle breed known as Sahiwal and a water buffalo breed known as Niliravi. It is very rich in livestock population and production. Livestock Production Research Institute Bahadar Nagar Farm is a very large government farm near Okara. The farm has many cows, buffalo, bulls (for reproduction), goats and sheep.

Demography

The majority of the population of Okara are Punjabi-speaking Muslims. The majority of the population of Okara are Punjabi speaking Muslims. The main tribes and clans include Jats, Shaikhs, Lodhis, Kharals, Kamyanas, Wattus, Kambohs, Noons, Bhutta, Jakkhar, and Khanzadas.[citation needed] A well-known politician from Okara is Chaudhary Nadeem Abbas Raberira who was the former Minister for Shomaali Ilaaqa Jaat and Azaad Kushmeer of Pakistan.

Agriculture

The city of Okara is Pakistan’s largest producer of maize, potato and dairy products.

Sources: Wikipedia