Access to Salt
Description
Fifty years ago, when Pakistan was just established, there was no road to reach the Punjab area except for a path from the Kashmir side. This path, traversing through Babusar top, was crucial for connectivity but it was only accessible during 2-3 months each year due to harsh weather conditions whereas Babusar top remained closed for 9-10 months, cutting off all access. During the brief period when Babusar top was open, people could travel to Kashmir and merchants from Gilgit would venture to Babusar top to receive salt from merchants in Kashmir. The salt trade was essential, as there was no other contact with other areas of Pakistan. In times of salt shortage, people resorted to using a white layer of soil, locally called bayu45. This soil contained salt that had risen to the upper layer of the soil, and people would use it. Many communities relied on the salt from Babusar top or the salt from the soil for their daily needs. The journey to Babusar top was arduous and challenging, yet it was a lifeline for the people in the region.
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