Dina, a rapidly expanding commercial town in the Jhelum district, is a city steeped in history and vibrant with economic activity. Located approximately 10 miles northwest of Jhelum City, Dina serves as a junction for the road to the Mangla Dam and Rohtas Fort.
The city holds a strategic position as the historic Grand Trunk Road passes through its centre. In this blog, graana.com explores the various aspects of Dina Jhelum Punjab, including its location, historical significance, industries, attractions, and educational and healthcare facilities.
Location of Dina Jhelum Punjab
Dina is situated on the Grand Trunk Road in the northern part of the Jhelum. The city’s geographical coordinates are approximately 33°1’60N latitude and 73° 35′ 60E longitude. With an altitude of 275 metres (905 ft), Dina covers an area of about 21,880 acres. It is located approximately 10 miles north of Jhelum, where it serves as a junction for the road leading to the Mangla Dam and Rohtas Fort.
Historical Significance of Dina
Dina carries historical significance, being named after the saint Baba Dina Shaeed, whose tomb lies near the Grand Trunk Road in the Domeli Mohalla. Prior to the partition of India in 1947, Dina was home to a Hindu and Sikh population.
In 1977, Dina was designated as an administrative subdivision or tehsil of the Jhelum District. Notably, Dina is also the birthplace of Gulzar, the renowned Indian poet, lyricist, and film director, whose family migrated to India after the partition.
Industries in Dina
Dina boasts a small yet thriving industrial sector. The city is known for its wood, iron, and marble industries, which contribute to its economic growth. Additionally, Dina benefits from its strategic location along the Grand Trunk Road, fostering commercial activity and trade.
Attractions Near Dina, Jhelum Punjab
Rohtas Fort
One of the prominent attractions near Dina is Rohtas Fort. Situated close to Jhelum City, this fort was built under the rule of Afghan king Sher Shah Suri. Spanning approximately 4 km in circumference, the Rohtas Fort was constructed to suppress the local tribes of Potohar who rebelled against the Sur dynasty following the ousting of Mughal emperor Humayun. The fort is a testament to the region’s rich historical heritage.
Baba Dina Shaeed Tomb
The tomb of Saint Baba Dina Shaeed, after whom the city of Dina is named, lies in the Domeli Mohalla near the Grand Trunk Road. This sacred site holds cultural and religious significance for the local community and attracts visitors seeking spiritual solace.
Mangla Dam
Situated approximately 30 km from Jhelum, the Mangla Dam is the twelfth largest dam in the world.
Tribes and Population of Dina, Jhelum Punjab
Dina is home to a diverse population, comprising various tribes and communities. The Jatts, also known as Jatoi, a prominent Baloch tribe, have a significant presence in Dina and exert considerable influence in the city’s political activities.
The Mughals, another influential tribe, have settled in large numbers in Dina, engaging in government jobs, businesses, and overseas employment. The city also houses several other tribes, including the Sarwani, Gujjars, Butts, Awans, Bhattis, Chauhans, Janjua Rajputs, and Kashmiri-based tribes who have settled due to the close proximity to Mirpur. The estimated population of Dina is approximately 50,000 residents, creating a vibrant and diverse community.
Education Facilities in Dina
Dina, Jhelum Punjab offers a range of educational facilities, catering to the needs of its residents and students from surrounding villages. Both government and private sector establishments provide primary, secondary, and higher secondary schools, colleges, and academies.
Some notable educational institutions in Dina include Government Higher Secondary School for Boys and Girls, Government Model High School, Fauji Foundation School, Raheel Higher Secondary School, Allied School, Air Foundation School, and more. These institutions play a vital role in shaping the future of the city’s youth.
Healthcare Facilities in Dina
Dina provides essential healthcare services to its residents through the Tehsil Rural Health Clinic (RHC). The RHC offers basic healthcare facilities, including emergency services, labour room services, operation theatre facilities, dental surgery, ambulance services, laboratory services, X-rays, ultrasound facilities, ECG services, and an upcoming blood bank.
For specialised or critical health issues, individuals may need to access more advanced hospitals in nearby cities. The RHC remains operational 24 hours a day, providing curative, preventive, promotive, and rehabilitative services to the local population.
Main Places of Interest
In addition to its historical significance, Dina is surrounded by captivating attractions that draw visitors from far and wide. Some of the main places of interest include:
Rohtas Fort
A magnificent fort built during the reign of Sher Shah Suri, serving as a reminder of the region’s rich history.
Baba Dina Shaeed Tomb
A sacred tomb honouring Saint Baba Dina Shaeed, providing a serene place for spiritual contemplation.
Mangla Dam
The twelfth largest dam in the world, situated on the Jhelum River, offers breathtaking views and opportunities for recreation.
Tehsil Government in Dina
The Tehsil Government in Dina operates under the leadership of an Assistant Commissioner. The administrative structure includes a sub-registrar, revenue officer, kanungos, and patwaris. The Assistant Commissioner oversees revenue administration, price control magistracy, coordination with different departments, monitoring of devolved and non-devolved departments, and coordination with the police department for maintaining law and order.
The Assistant Commissioner also handles anti-encroachment functions, disposal of judicial cases, monitoring the progress of revenue officers, recruitment of lower revenue field staff, and reporting to higher authorities. However, it is important to note that the Assistant Commissioner does not have authority over police stations or criminal matters.
Streets and Villages in Dina
Dina comprises several streets and villages, each contributing to the unique character of the city. Some notable streets include Mir Street, Mujahid Street, Muftian, Mohalla Nawab Pura, Theekrian, Data Road, Royal Street, Domeli Mohalla, Khalilabad Mohalla, Station Mohalla, Naya Mohalla, Noor Mohalla, Islam Pura Mohalla, Miana Mohalla, Mohalla Masoom Shah, Iqbal Town, Liaqat Town, Quaid-e-Azam Town, Mughalabad, New Jhang, Hadali, Hadala Syedan, Kiani Street, Muhalla Bashirabad, and Madukalas.
Furthermore, Dina encompasses several villages that contribute to the overall cultural and social fabric of the city. These villages include Afghanabad, Ayub Abad, Bara Gurma, Burha Jungle Sharif, Baghaan, Boharian, Chak Abdul Khaliq, Chak Akah, Chahmala, Channi Gujran, Chakyam, and many more. The streets and villages of Dina showcase the diversity and close-knit nature of the community, creating a vibrant and interconnected cityscape.
Dina is a rapidly expanding commercial town with a rich historical and cultural heritage. Situated along the historic Grand Trunk Road, Dina serves as a significant junction connecting various destinations, including the Mangla Dam and Rohtas Fort. With a population of approximately 40,000 residents. For more information, visit Graana.com.
