Preface Last Updated: 12/31/1999
6:00 PM
For 3,000 years, the trade routes that cross the Indus Valley
linking the Middle East, India, and the Orient have attracted
countless invaders and settlers from as far away as Greece and
Mongolia. In one way or another, they all have contributed to the
rich cultural diversity of the country that for five decades has
been known as Pakistan. In 1947, millions of Muslims from India made
their way to a new homeland. Since then, the heritage of Islam has
been the cohesive factor enabling this ethnographic amalgam to
survive and grow. Pakistan’s fascinating culture is complemented by
a spectacular and variegated landscape stretching from the second
highest peak in the world to the shores of the Arabian Sea. The
spectacular mountainous areas are a result of the collision of the
Indian subcontinent with Asia. Indeed, a tour in Pakistan can be the
highlight of a Foreign Service career.
The Host Country
Area, Geography, and Climate Last Updated: 12/31/1999 6:00 PM
Pakistan, part of the greater Indian subcontinent, is situated at
the crossroads of the Middle East and Asia. The country covers an
area about the size of the states of Washington, Oregon, and
California combined. It is bordered by Iran and Afghanistan on the
west; China on the north; the disputed territory of Jammu and
Kashmir on the northeast; India on the east; and the Arabian Sea on
the south. Pakistan lies between latitudes 24 and 37 degrees north
(e.g., from the southern tip of Florida to the southern border of
Virginia).
The major political divisions of the country are the Provinces of
Sindh, Balochistan, Punjab, Northwest Frontier, and the federally
administered Northern Areas, Tribal Areas, and Azad Kashmir. The
provinces roughly correspond with the country’s major geographic,
ethnic, and linguistic regions.
There are five distinct geographic regions:
The Thar Desert and Lower Indus Valley, located in the
southernmost province of Sindh, consists largely of arid valleys and
rocky hills that extend into neighboring India. Farming is
successful only in the irrigated areas nearest to the Indus River.
The Balochistan Plateau is a broad, arid tableland that lies
between 1,000 and 3,000 feet above sea level in the western province
of Balochistan. The plateau is encircled by rugged mountains and
covers nearly one-half of the country’s territory.
The Indus Basin features the largest contiguous irrigation system
in the world. “Punjab,” the name of the province in which much of
the basin is located, means “five waters” in Persian, referring to
the five major rivers (Indus, Jhelum, Chenab, Ravi, and Sutlej) in
the basin. The province of Punjab comprises the northeastern quarter
of Pakistan.
The Northwest Frontier is a region of barren mountains sheltering
rich irrigated valleys. The provincial capital of Peshawar is
situated on an ancient trade route that leads through the Khyber
Pass and into Afghanistan.
The Far North offers Pakistan’s most spectacular scenery with
towering snowcapped mountains, deep narrow valleys, and glaciers.
The world’s second highest mountain, K–2, is located in the Far
North, as are a dozen other peaks of more than 25,000 feet
elevation, including Nanga Parbat, Gasherbrun, and Rakaposhi.
Seasonal temperatures vary widely in these five regions. With the
exception of the Far North, summers are hot throughout the country
with temperatures ranging from 90°F to 120°F and little nighttime
relief. Trade winds provide some relief during the hot and humid
summers in Karachi and a brief cool season comes between December
and February. In Lahore, Islamabad, and Peshawar, a distinct winter
season brings daytime temperatures of 60°F or less and cold nights.
Islamabad and Peshawar may have light frosts. Spring and fall are
delightful seasons in these three cities. Altitude governs climate
in the Far North, with pleasant summers in the lower regions and
perpetual snow in the higher mountains.
The average annual rainfall varies from 6 inches in Karachi, 15
inches in Peshawar, and 18 inches in Lahore, to about 30 inches in
Islamabad. Most rain falls during the summer monsoon from July to
September, although parts of the Punjab and the Northwest Frontier
experience a moderate winter rainy season as well.
Population Last Updated: 8/31/2004 0:37 AM
Pakistan is a relatively poor country with a rapidly growing
population. Annual per capita income is approximately $470. 35% of
the population is below the poverty line. The population is
currently estimated at 159,196,336 (July 2004 est.), making Pakistan
the seventh most populous country in the world. Conservatively
estimated to be growing at an annual rate of 1.98 percent (2004
est.), one of the highest rates in the world, Pakistan's population
could double in 27 years. One of Pakistan's major problems is
illiteracy; only 45.7% of the adult population is literate with the
rate being significantly lower for women than men. About 44% of
Pakistan's labor force is engaged in agriculture, 17% works in
industry and 39% in services (1999 est.). Pakistani society
traditionally assigns a subordinate role to women with the result
that 65% of boys ages 6 to 11 and only 33% of girls attend primary
school. Women are reported to be only 13.1% of the labor force, but
this does not include the large number of women engaged in
agricultural and household work. The unemployment rate is
approximately 7.7%(2003 est.) Substantial disparities exist in
living conditions between urban areas and the countryside where over
two-thirds of Pakistan's people live. Pakistan's population is
unevenly distributed throughout the country. More than 1.5 million
Afghan refugees have sought refuge in its borders while employment
abroad has taken 2 million Pakistanis away. Population density in
parts of Sindh and Punjab is well above the average distribution of
381 persons per square mile. The barren uplands of Balochistan area
the least inhabited areas of the country. Internal migration,
particularly from rural to urban areas, has begun to alter the
ethnic and linguistic character of each of the Provinces, but it is
still generally true that Sindh is the home of the Sindhis who speak
Sindhi; Balochistan is the traditional home of the Balochi-speaking
Baloch; Punjabi is the language of the Punjab, home of Pakistan's
largest and most influential ethnic group; and the Northwest
Frontier is the tribal homeland of the Pushtu-speaking Pathan. The
most notable exception to this pattern is seen in the urban areas of
Sindh. Immediately after independence, a significant number of
Muslim "muhajirs" or refugees of various ethnic backgrounds poured
into these areas from India. More recently, internal migration has
brought many job-seeking Pathans to Karachi. In addition, the
movement of large numbers of Pathans and some Punjabi farmers into
Balochistan over the past decades has made the Baloch a minority in
their own province. A few smaller ethnic groups, such as the
Gilgitis, Kashmiris, and the people of Hunza, inhabit the remote
valleys of the Far North. Urdu is the official language of Pakistan.
Although it is the first language, only 8% of the total population
and 25% of the urban population speak Urdu. Educated Pakistanis are
usually conversant in Urdu. The status of English has declined
somewhat as a result of "Urduization" efforts by the government, but
it is still used extensively in business and government. Although
geographically, ethnically, linguistically, and socially Pakistan is
the picture of diversity, its religious homogeneity is an important
unifying factor. Members of the Sunni sect, 77%, constitute the
largest number of the Muslims in Pakistan: Shia Muslims 20% and
others 3%. Several hundred thousand Israelis live in Karachi and the
northern areas. Religious minorities include Christians (1.6
million, 80% of whom live in Punjab), Hindus (1.6 million, 80% of
whom live in Sindh), and Parsis (7,000, most of whom live in
Karachi).
Public Institutions Last Updated: 8/31/2004 1:05 AM
The land that is now Pakistan is the site of one of the world's
oldest civilizations. As a western gateway to the Indian
subcontinent, this area has seen successive waves of people move
down through the passes from central Asia and the Iranian Plateau,
bringing new ethnic strains and a wide variety of cultural
contributions. Over the past 3,000 years, it has been ruled or
invaded by Aryans, Persians, Greeks, Kushans, Mongols, Afghans,
Turks, Moghuls, Sikhs, British and others. Pakistan came into being
in August 1947 as a result of the Muslim League's determination,
once the British rulers departed, to have its own state in the
Indian subcontinent, separate from the Hindu majority. The
partitioning of British India led to the migration on a massive
scale of Muslims to Pakistan and Hindus to India. In the process,
hundreds of thousands died and the legacy of partition remains a
source of bitterness between India and Pakistan to this day. In
1947, Pakistan faced a unique and ultimately unsolvable problem of
ethnic and geographic division. The new nation was divided into two
parts more than 1,000 miles from each other and on opposite sides of
the Indian subcontinent. Slightly less than half the people
inhabited West Pakistan (present-day Pakistan) and the rest occupied
East Pakistan (now Bangladesh) in the humid delta region of the
lower Ganges in East Bengal. The two halves of the country differed
greatly in language, customs, and daily life and were held together
only by a common religion and mutual distrust of the Hindu majority
in India. In its early years, Pakistan faced frequent political
crises. The death in 1948 of its founder and first Governor General,
Mohammed Ali Jinnah, and the 1951 assassination of Prime Minister
Liaquat Ali Khan deprived the country of two of its most able
leaders. From 1951 to 1958, a succession of unstable governments did
little to improve internal conditions. In 1958, the Army
Commander-in-Chief, General Mohammed Ayub Khan, overthrew the
civilian government and seized power as president. Ayub governed
Pakistan for 10 years, first under martial law, and after 1962 under
a constitution that provided strong executive powers and limited
representative government. Ayub relinquished the presidency in early
1969 to Commander-in-Chief General Mohammed Yahya Khan, who
dismissed the government, abrogated the constitution and ruled under
martial law. In December 1970, however, he permitted Pakistan's
first free nationwide elections to select members for both the
National Assembly and provincial legislatures. The election results
profoundly affected the future of Pakistan. In the West, the
Pakistan People's Party (PPP) of Zulfikar Ali Bhutto gained a
majority. In the East, The Awami League of Sheikh Mujibur Rahman
scored an overwhelming victory, one so great that the party gained a
majority of all seats in both East Pakistan and in the National
Assembly. A period of intense political maneuvering followed, with
the main issue being the degree of autonomy to be accorded East
Pakistan. This period ended abruptly in March 1971, when the Army
arrested Mujibur Rahman in Dhaka and attempted to suppress his
followers. Resulting disorders in East Pakistan grew into a
widespread insurrection, during which 10 million refugees fled into
neighboring India. Growing tension between Pakistan and India over
developments in East Pakistan led to the outbreak of war in December
1971. India invaded East Pakistan and after a short campaign, West
Pakistan's forces in the East surrendered. Then the former East
Pakistan became the independent nation of Bangladesh. From 1971 to
1977, Bhutto was in power, first as president, and then, following
the construction of a new constitution in 1973, as prime minister in
a parliamentary system. Following national elections in early 1977,
a major confrontation emerged between Bhutto's PPP government and a
multi-party coalition called the Pakistan National Alliance (PNA).
Subsequently, Prime Minister Bhutto was removed in a bloodless coup
led by Chief of Army Staff, General Zia-ul-Haq. Bhutto was
eventually convicted of conspiracy to commit murder and hanged. From
1977 to 1985, Pakistan remained under martial law with Zia serving
both as President and as Chief Martial Law Administrator. Finally,
in response to domestic and international pressures, Zia allowed a
return to democracy. Non-party elections to the National and
Provincial Assemblies were held in 1985. The new government, led by
Prime Minister Mohammed Khan Junejo, enjoyed the support of
legislators associated with the Pakistan Muslim League (PML) who
provided Junejo comfortable majorities in the National and
Provincial Assemblies. Groups of independents and opposition forces
were also formed. Local elections were held in 1987 under civilian
government auspices. In August 1988, growing tensions between
President Zia and PM Junejo led Zia to dismiss Junejo's government
and call for new non-party elections. Zia's death in a plane crash,
along with U.S. Ambassador Arnold Raphel later that month, however,
altered the political environment. Senate Chairman Ghulam Ishaq Khan
assumed the presidency and guided the nation through the elections
in November of that year. The Pakistan People's Party led by Z.A.
Bhutto's daughter, Benazir Bhutto, assumed power in December 1988,
won the election. Although the largest party in Parliament, the PPP
lacked a majority. Bhutto's administration struggled for most of its
tenure and on August 6, 1990, the President, acting under the
constitution, removed the Bhutto government. A caretaker regime held
national and provincial elections in October 1990, which brought a
coalition to power under the leadership of Nawaz Sharif, who became
Prime Minister in November 1990. President Ghulam Ishaq Khan
dismissed Sharif's government in April 1993, but the Supreme Court
later restored it. The resulting constitutional crisis was resolved
by the resignation of both the Prime Minister and the President. In
elections held in October 1993, the PPP-led coalition won and
Benazir Bhutto became Prime Minister again. In November 1996,
President Farooq Leghari dismissed Bhutto's government on the
grounds of corruption and abuse of power. In the February 1997
elections, the PML won a two-thirds majority in the National
Assembly and Nawaz Sharif once again became Prime Minister. However,
the 1999 coup of General Pervez Musharraf has brought the
President's role back to that of executive, and Musharraf currently
holds that position.
Arts, Science, and Education Last Updated: 8/31/2004 1:15 AM
An Islamic presence in the subcontinent introduced new outside
elements of creativity. The period of Moghul rule, particularly, was
marked by great achievements in architecture, examples of which are
still world famous. In Lahore, the palace-fortress called the Red
Fort, begun at the time of Emperor Akbar, and the Badshahi Mosque
(one of the largest in the world), erected during the reign of
Emperor Aurangzeb, are fine examples of Moghul buildings. Also at
Lahore is Shalimar, the Garden of Bliss, a good example of a formal
Moghul garden. Because Islam prohibits pictorial likeness of the
human form in art, representational art did not develop
substantially among the Muslims in the subcontinent until the
mid-20th century, when declining Moghul influence and increasing
Western contact resulted in less restrictive art forms. Abstract
paintings and designs more in keeping with Muslim sensitivities have
always been prevalent and are still popular today. Recently,
Pakistani artists, usually the young, have begun experimentation in
many different media. As a result, art shows in most of the larger
cities are becoming more common, and a new interest, especially in
painting, is increasing. Most notable artistic expression is found
in Pakistani handicrafts. The feeling for form, design, and color is
best displayed in pottery, carpets, hand-woven textiles, articles
made of marble, inlaid woodwork, and brass, copper, and silverware.
Strong literary traditions exist in Urdu as well as in the regional
languages (Sindhi, Punjabi, and Pushtu). The largest shares of
popular academic and standard literary publications are in Urdu, the
national language. Technical subjects and more advanced writings in
the social sciences are in English. A wide variety of music, ranging
from folk to classical to Western popular styles, is enjoyed
throughout Pakistan. Pakistani folk music, particularly melodies and
rhythms of mountain tribes and rural areas, is most appealing to
Westerners. Country-Western, jazz and rock, although not encouraged,
are also gaining popularity, especially among young people. The
Government of Pakistan patronizes and encourages artistic
expression, intellectual pursuits, and Islamic culture through
radio, television, universities, art councils, art galleries, and
academic and professional associations (Pakistan Historical Society,
Pakistan Philosophical Congress, Association for the Advancement of
Science, Pakistan Writers' Guild, etc.). The government-sponsored
National Council of the Arts aims at coordinating all cultural,
artistic, literary, and intellectual activities in the country. The
government of Pakistan works continuously to improve the quality of
the country's educational system, but reform efforts are hampered by
lack of financial resources and qualified personnel, outdated
instructional materials and techniques, and a reluctance among some
elements of Pakistani society to participate fully in the education
of the nation's youth. In general, the provincial governments
control education with strong inputs from the Federal government.
The Federal and Provincial governments are working together to
combat illiteracy, which is one of the most serious obstacles to
economic and social development. According to comprehensive 2003
figures, the most recent available, the overall literacy rate was
45.7% (male 59.8% and female 30.6%). In 1998 was estimated that by
2000, the overall literacy rate would have improved to 43.6% (male
56.2% and female 29.8%). Education planners consider this
improvement insufficient and are developing new programs to reduce
illiteracy. These include model programs in each province and in the
Capital district, and another program, called "User of Koranic
Literacy for Promotion of Female Literacy," which takes advantage of
the ability of many women to read the Koran in Arabic as a tool to
learn to read Urdu. Urdu is the national language and is emphasized
in the official curriculum, although regional languages are used in
primary school classrooms in some areas. Government authorities have
stressed that English should receive prominence as a second
language. English is taught at the upper levels and in private
schools, and excellent knowledge of English is required for the top
levels of government service and the study of science and medicine.
Students also study Arabic and regional languages such as Sindhi,
Punjabi, Pushtu, and Baloch. The government is accelerating the
universalization of primary education and is encouraging private
sector involvement in the educational system. Improvements are also
underway in technical and vocational education. In the fields of
secondary and higher secondary, greater emphasis has been placed on
scientific and technical education. Although expansion is under way
at all levels, the educational system is not able to cope with rapid
population growth. Globalization of free primary education is being
accelerated, and the private sector's participation in educational
development is encouraged. Pakistanis who can afford the cost of
private schools choose to send their children to these institutions,
rather than public schools. In some areas, private institutions are
setting a standard of high quality, which the public schools have
yet to attain. The Government is attempting to make improvements in
technical and vocational training facilities. In secondary and
higher secondary education, greater emphasis is being placed on
science and technical education, and many schools are introducing
computers into their instructional programs. There are 24
universities in Pakistan. Some of the more prominent private
universities are the Agha Khan Medical University and Hamdard
University in Karachi, and the Lahore University of Management
Sciences. The prestigious Quaid-i-Azam University in Islamabad
conducts all its programs at the graduate level. The Allam Iqbal
Open University, also in Islamabad, offers courses through radio,
television, and correspondence. Universities are monitored and
financed by the University Grants Commission. Several universities
follow the American semester system. Tuition at the public
universities is negligible and meets virtually none of the cost of
higher education. The private universities, on the other hand,
charge high fees, but also offer financial assistance to deserving
students.
Commerce and Industry Last Updated: 8/31/2004 1:19 AM
Pakistan's per capita income of U.S. $470 is the highest in the
subcontinent, but it is still a poor country by world standards; 37%
below poverty level. The relative prosperity of the industrialized
regions around Karachi and Lahore contrast sharply with the poverty
of semi-arid Balochistan and the mountainous Northwest Frontier
Province. The economy relies heavily on the agricultural sector,
which contributes about 44% of the GDP. Agriculture employs over
half of the work force, and provides, directly or indirectly, over
half of the export receipts. Cultivation of the rich alluvial soil
of the Indus River Basin has always been the chief economic activity
of the country. The major crops are wheat, cotton, rice, and
sugarcane. However, despite developments in agriculture Pakistan
still must import many major food items including wheat, consumable
oil, and sugar. Service constitutes 39% of the gross domestic
product (GDP), but does not include women workers such as servants.
Growth in the industrial sector, which accounts for about 17% of the
GDP, has declined in recent years largely due to inconsistent
economic policies of successive governments. However, significant
progress has been made in diversification of manufacturing. Major
industries include cotton textiles, fertilizer, cement, food
processing, vegetable ghee, sugar, and steel. Although significant
quantities of natural gas are present in Pakistan, and several major
dams on the Indus River system provide a good deal of hydroelectric
generating capacity, the country continues to rely on massive levels
of imported oil to meet its energy requirements. In recent years,
periodic power blackouts known as "load shedding" have been
considerably reduced by sizable foreign investment under the
Government's Private Power Policy. Pakistan's balance-of-payments
position remains weak. In recent years the dollar value of exports
has increased at U.S. $11.7 billion level (2003 est.). Substantial
inflows from abroad, not only in the form of remittances from
Pakistanis working in the Persian Gulf and in Europe, but also
foreign assistance, have contributed to easing the imbalance. Chief
exports include rice, leather goods, carpets, and cotton yarn and
textiles. Major imports are petroleum, machinery, consumable oil,
wheat, iron, and steel. Pakistan's principal trading partner is the
U.S., 24.5% of exports.
Transportation
Automobiles Last Updated: 8/31/2004 2:07 AM
Employees find a privately owned vehicle (POV) very useful in
Pakistan. The motor pool will provide shuttle transportation for
employees for a fee or until you're private vehicle arrives. This
service is contingent upon available cars and drivers. You will need
to make arrangements a day in advance. Employees are not authorized
to ship POVs to Karachi at this time. Most people import their own
personal cars. Shipment of a vehicle from the U.S. to Pakistan takes
a minimum of 3 months. Bring your U.S. registration and car title to
register your car on arrival and sell it upon departure. With
permission from the Government of Pakistan, a diplomat may sell a
car that has been in the country less than 5 years to another
"privileged" person duty free. Alternatively, the car may be sold to
a "non-privileged" person upon payment of customs duties, or to the
Pakistani Government. Cars owned by diplomatic personnel that remain
in country for more than 5 years may be sold to the general public.
However, you may sell only one car that has been purchased duty free
in country. Second-hand cars are for sale by departing diplomatic
officers. Most of these are for sale in May and June. Prices for
these may be higher than you expect since it is a rather closed
market. Technical and administrative staff (non-diplomatic) is not
allowed to purchase a duty-free car in Pakistan. Non-diplomatic
personnel who wish to have a car at post should ship a vehicle to
arrive after their own arrival at post, but in no case later than
five months after their personal arrival in Pakistan. This will
permit GSO to clear the car within the six-month limit set by the
Ministry of Foreign Affairs. The private vehicle of a non-diplomat
may be sold to a diplomat, or to the GOP, or re-exported upon the
employee's departure from Pakistan. (Note: The GOP pays only the
fully depreciated price according to the Kelly Blue Book.)
Non-diplomatic personnel may import a car free of taxes during the
first 6 months of their tour. A non-diplomatic employee who plans to
ship a privately owned vehicle to post must send, before shipment, a
copy of the car's registration certificate to the General Services
Officer. The car will take about 3 months to arrive from an East
Coast U.S. port and to clear the necessary formalities. The GSO
shipping office will arrange customs clearance and will assist with
delivery of the vehicle. These vehicles cannot be released from
customs without a copy of the car's registration. The post incurs
costly demurrage charges if vehicles are not cleared promptly. A
non-diplomat may purchase a duty-paid car on the local market, but
should be aware that duty on a new vehicle varies from 150% to 500%
of the value of the vehicle. A non-diplomat at post may not purchase
a vehicle in country from another non-diplomat or from a diplomat,
unless he/she pays the full customs duty pertaining to that vehicle.
Non-diplomatic personnel are those personnel who do not hold
diplomatic or consular title, such as First Secretary, Consul, or
Attaché, during their tour of duty in Pakistan. Pakistani law
prohibits darkly tinted auto glass. Lightly tinted glass that can be
clearly seen through from inside and out is acceptable. Do not ship
a vehicle with darkly tinted glass. If you are purchasing a vehicle
locally, be aware that this law includes those, which were in
country prior to the law. Cars equipped with catalytic converters
should be modified before shipment. Most reputable muffler shops and
auto repair shops in the U.S. can do the removal correctly. The
catalytic converter should be shipped with your household effects.
The catalytic converter must be shipped back to the U.S. with the
car for replacement, because the EPA must verify the converter's
effectiveness within 10 days of the car's arrival. Replacements and
fines are expensive. Use of leaded gasoline (all that is available
locally) with the catalytic converter installed will render the
converter inoperative. A locking gas cap and air-conditioning are
advisable, as is an automatic trunk release, since the inside of
hoods and trunks of all vehicles are inspected by the local guard
service each time before vehicles are allowed on the Embassy
compound. The experience with fuel injection engines varies: some
employees have had difficulty maintaining vehicles with fuel
injection systems, while others have had no serious problems. Since
driving is on the left-hand side of the road, right-hand-drive cars
are safer, although both left-hand and right-hand-drive vehicles are
used. Islamabad, with its wide avenues and four-lane roads, lends
itself to the use of left-hand-drive vehicles. However, in other
areas, because of heavy congestion and narrow streets, use of a
left-hand drive car can be dangerous. A number of road hazards, both
animate and inanimate, place great reliance on sound suspension,
horns, and good brakes. Persons whose cars have the new small
emergency spare tire should consider investing in a full size rim
and spare tire. Flats are frequent and reliable repair facilities
are not always close at hand. Car maintenance is adequate. Except
for Japanese vehicles, spare car parts are scarce and expensive.
Bring extra spark plugs, oil and air filters, fan belts, and an
extra set of points. Consult with the service manager of your local
garage for a list of commonly replaced parts to bring along. Cars
most commonly found in Pakistan are Toyota Corollas, Coronas,
Cressidas, and Land Cruisers; Honda Accords and Civics; and
Mitsubishi Pajeros (though Pajeros are not recommended for Karachi
where they are a favorite target of thieves). It is possible to
order a new car from Japan. These cars are right-hand-drive
vehicles, which cannot be imported into the U.S. without costly
safety and emissions alterations because they do not meet U.S.
standards. The good news is that they cost at least 40% less than an
equivalent model that is manufactured for the U.S. market. Ocean
freight is reimbursable by the employee's agency. Purchase local
marine insurance on the value of the automobile, including estimated
customs duties in the event of total loss. The cost for insurance
and shipping for an $8,400 car is about $138. Employees are
cautioned that vehicle deliveries ex-factory take 4-6 months.
(Non-diplomatic personnel must import the vehicle within six months
of their personal arrival in Pakistan.) Payment must be made in
advance. Payment can be made by bank draft or certified check in the
exact amount of the purchase payable to the dealer's agent in Japan.
This can be arranged in one of two ways: Have your bank in the U.S.
wire a transfer of funds to the agent in Japan, or the funds can be
wire transferred to the American Express Bank in Islamabad, which
will issue a bank draft. The fee for this service is $70-$110.
Vehicles cannot be cleared through customs until the employee has
arrived in country. All Mission personnel should obtain a Pakistani
driver's license before driving a vehicle in country. Application
for the license will be made during the check-in procedure shortly
after arriving at post. To receive a Pakistani driver's license, you
must have a valid U.S. driver's license. Temporary licenses are not
sufficient. The Government of Pakistan does not recognize
international driver's licenses. Legal driving age in Pakistan is 18
years for any type of vehicle. Local third-party liability insurance
is mandatory. Costs vary depending on the size of the engine. Up to
1000cc, the premium is about $14 a year, 1000-2000cc, about $16, and
over 2000 cc, about $20 a year. Comprehensive and collision
insurance is also recommended, available locally and less expensive
than in the U.S. Bring a certificate from your U.S. insurance
company, or from another country, showing a 5-year claim free record
to obtain substantial premium reductions. Some employees keep their
U.S. insurance or, if possible, insure with an overseas specialist
(Lloyds or Clements). Arrange for transit insurance, marine and road
policy, to include final destination when shipping your car. Cars
for posts are sent by road from the Karachi port. Gasoline and
diesel are available throughout the country and the Pakistani
Government fixes the price. Octane ratings lower than in the U.S.
allow low-compression, six-cylinder engines to run better. Regular
gasoline averages 80- octane, and super gasoline averages 87 octane.
Occasionally, 100-octane gasoline is available. Regular gasoline
lacks additives that make U.S. gasoline more efficient in
high-compression engines. Presently, the price of "super" gasoline
is about 81¢ per liter, and diesel prices are about 44¢ per liter
off post. All employees may purchase tax-free gasoline or diesel
from the GSO gas station using chits for sale through the Embassy
cashier or Commissary. The present cost of duty-free "super"
gasoline at the GSO gas station is about 45¢ per liter; diesel
presently costs about 34¢ per liter.
Transportation
Local Transportation Last Updated: 8/31/2004 2:06 AM
Local transportation is prohibited.
Transportation
Regional Transportation Last Updated: 8/31/2004 2:38 AM
Pakistan International Airlines (PIA) and a number of
international carriers serve Pakistan. However, no U.S. carriers
offer service to or from Pakistan although United Airlines recently
entered into a "code share" arrangement with several other
international carriers. Karachi maintains the nation's largest
airport with service to and from a variety of destinations on both
PIA and other international airlines. Air service is more limited in
Islamabad with flights on only three carriers: PIA, Saudi, and
British Airways. British Airways offers thrice weekly direct service
from London. Inter-country travel is facilitated by PIA, which flies
to all major cities in Pakistan. However, these flights are often
crowded and overbooked so take care to confirm your flight in
advance. Road transportation between major points is possible, but
roads are usually crowded and in poor repair. Travel by car from
Karachi to Lahore takes 2 days. However, travel outside of Karachi
and into the Sindh interior must have prior approval of the
Government of Pakistan and the Mission due to severe law and order
problems. Travel by land is therefore not advised. The drive from
Lahore to Islamabad normally takes 4 hours on the modern express
Motorway, which was inaugurated in December 1997. The drive from
Islamabad to Peshawar takes about 3 hours. Again be very cautious,
driving can be dangerous on main trunk routes.
Communications
Telephones and Telecommunications Last Updated: 12/31/1999 6:00
PM
Telephone service in Pakistan is adequate. Direct-dial service
connects all major cities in the country, and international
direct-dial service is available from Pakistan to most foreign
countries including the United States. Phone bills should be
monitored closely to assure that you are billed only for calls
placed from your phone.
Station-to-station calls to the U.S. cost Rs. 52 (U.S. $1.26) per
minute. International direct-dial may be accomplished from your
residence. The Embassy in December 1997 activated limited IVG
service to the U.S. and some other embassies with official calls
taking precedence but personal use possible outside official USG
hours. International direct-dial may be accomplished from your
residence. International calls may also be booked with the local
operator, but it takes time and the call is limited. During the
rainy season the telephones are sometimes out of order; however,
service is normally restored within one day.
Communications
Internet Last Updated: 8/31/2004 2:28 AM
Residential internet service is available, although the service
is expensive and downtime is common.
Communications
Mail and Pouch Last Updated: 8/31/2004 2:31 AM
Although international airmail service to and from the U.S. is
available and many use international aerograms, the State
Department's pouch and APO facilities are more reliable, especially
for valuable letters or enclosures. Pouch privileges are restricted.
Consult your agency for the correct pouch address if you are
eligible. APO privileges are available only to DOD personnel and
direct hire U.S. Government employees. American employees of
government contractors should check on the facilities available to
them. APO mailing address* for Islamabad:
(Your Name) Unit 62200, (Your Office Box #) APO, AE 09812-2200
*For APO addresses of constituent posts in Pakistan see post
entries.
The maximum weight allowable for packages shipped through the APO
is 70 pounds, and the maximum size is 72 inches length and girth
combined. Different classes available for shipment include priority,
fourth class, and special fourth class (book rate). APO mail may be
insured or certified.
Communications
Radio and TV Last Updated: 8/31/2004 2:32 AM
There are two television stations in Pakistan: Pakistan
Television (PTV) is countrywide, and Shalimar Television Network (STN)
is available in Lahore, Karachi, and Islamabad/Rawalpindi. PTV
carries news, musical programs, documentaries, dramas, and sports in
Urdu or other local languages. It also carries old American sitcoms
and movies from time to time. News in English is broadcast at 7 p.m.
daily. PTV is not regarded as an entertainment or recreation source
for Americans. STN has started partial productions, airs acquired
programs from many sources and carries CNN broadcasts for 8 hours
per day. Acquired programs include British and American sit-coms,
Urdu and English films, and Public Diplomacy-supplied documentaries
on science, art, and wildlife. All programs on PTV and STN are
censored to remove anything, which might be objectionable. Satellite
dishes have become common here. With a dish, one can pick up CNN,
Star (Hong-Kong based system featuring, BBC, MTV, sports and
entertainment), and several Chinese and Arabic channels. Dishes and
receivers are readily available and reasonably priced (currently
from $150 to $500). The American Club has a dish, which receives
several channels. All television programming in Pakistan is 625 PAL
standard. The American Club in Islamabad maintains a wide variety of
movies in NTSC format for rental. Audiotapes are widely available in
local stores but are also of uneven quality. CDs are readily
available, but selection is still limited and prices are cheaper
than in the U.S. Quality English, Dutch, or Japanese television sets
can be bought on the local market, but prices are sometimes higher
than in the U.S. The most satisfactory sets are multi-system sets,
which can handle PAL and NTSC signals. Personnel can purchase
multi-system VCRs at reasonable prices in Pakistan, especially in
Peshawar. Prices are comparable to those available in the U.S.
Converting NTSC systems to PAL is not advisable. Most Americans
bring a VCR/DVD and TV from the U.S. A multi-system TV, which
handles PAL as well as NTSC, is advisable. Pakistan has a
countrywide radio system. Most of the programming is in Urdu or
other local languages. There are three short English language news
broadcasts daily. Music aired is Pakistani. A good short-wave radio
can be helpful for wider coverage of world events. VOA, BBC, and
other nations' broadcasts have special programs in English for this
region. An outside antenna will improve reception, and a radio with
push-button capability to lock-in a station makes short-wave hunting
easier.
Communications
Newspapers, Magazines, and Technical Journals Last Updated:
8/31/2004 2:34 AM
Pakistani newspapers in English are readily available in major
cities and may be home delivered. The International Herald Tribune
and USA Today are flown in from Hong Kong and cost about $3.00 a
copy. Hotel newsstands and bookstores carry international editions
of Time and Newsweek. However, while books are government subsidized
magazines are not which tends to make them rather expensive.
Subscriptions from the local news dealer may be available for home
or office delivery. Single copies of American magazines and comic
books may also be found at newsstands and bookstores. Magazines
mailed from the U.S. typically take about 2 weeks to arrive via APO.
Health and Medicine Last Updated: 8/31/2004 2:22 AM
Health and Medicine
Medical Facilities Last Updated: 8/31/2004 2:09 AM
Limited outpatient medical facilities are available at the
Embassy and consular posts. Islamabad, Karachi, Lahore, and Peshawar
have Health Units for use by the official American community. The
Regional Medical Officer is based in Islamabad, but makes periodic
visits to all posts for consultation as well as to visit, review,
evaluate, and recommend medical facilities available for the
official American community living in those areas. Pakistan has
limited but usually adequate hospital facilities. Laboratory and
X-ray facilities are available, but service, equipment, and
cleanliness are not consistent with U.S. standards. For this reason,
the Health Units are set up to provide immunizations and primary
health care, and to dispense medications for acute illnesses and
starter doses of medications for long-term medical problems (e.g.,
high blood pressure, arthritis, etc.). Individuals requiring
surgery, diagnostic tests not available in Pakistan, and treatment
for serious illnesses are evacuated to London or Singapore.
Employees are advised to have elective surgery and diagnostic tests
completed in the U.S. before proceeding to post whenever possible.
The Health Units keep a limited supply of commonly used medications.
Bring your own supply of any medications, both prescription and
over-the-counter, used on a regular basis, and make arrangements for
refills by mail. Pharmacies throughout Pakistan can fill some
prescription needs and have a large variety of non-prescription
drugs, some manufactured locally and some imported. Locally
purchased drugs may cost less than in the U.S. Some non-prescription
items are available at the commissaries. If you have specific
questions about what to bring, write to the Regional Medical
Officer. Although dental care is available in Pakistan, most
employees prefer to have dental evaluation and treatment in the U.S.
Orthodontia service is limited. Standard prescriptions for glasses
can be filled inexpensively, but no safety glass is available and
standards are uncertain. Americans send eyewear to the U.S. for the
filling of prescriptions. Have glasses checked before coming to post
and bring a spare pair. Islamabad. The Islamabad Health Unit at
present has a Regional Medical Officer, Foreign Service nurse
practitioner, two contract nurses and a Foreign Service laboratory
technologist. Besides basic lab and X-ray facilities, the Health
Unit has two hospital beds and a minor emergency room. Civilian
hospitals in the Islamabad/Rawalpindi area are adequate although not
up to American standards. However, emergency surgery and trauma
cases can be sent to Shifa International Hospital in Islamabad.
Karachi. The Consulate General has a well-equipped Health Unit
staffed by a contract nurse. The Health Unit provides immunizations,
primary health care, and dispenses medications for acute illnesses.
Hospital facilities especially the modern and well-equipped Agha
Khan Hospital in Karachi are occasionally used for in-patient
emergency care and radiologist and laboratory services. Individuals
requiring elective surgery, diagnostic tests not available in
Karachi, or treatment for serious illnesses may be evacuated to
London or Singapore. Although dental care is available, have dental
evaluation and treatment before reporting to post. Orthodontia
service is limited. Individuals taking any long-term medications are
advised to bring an adequate supply from home. The commissary does
stock some over-the-counter medications but the supply and choice
are limited. Lahore. The Health Unit in Lahore no longer has
permanent manning. The regional medical officer makes periodic
visits to the Health Unit. The Shaikh Zayed Hospital is used in
emergencies and has a few British or U.S.-trained doctors, but is
not up to U.S. standards. In-patients often need round-the-clock
supervision.
Peshawar. The Regional Medical Officer visits Peshawar
periodically. The Health Unit is staffed with a contract nurse two
hours per day. There are hospitals in Peshawar, but standards are
far below those found in the U.S. Persons living in Peshawar often
choose to drive to Islamabad to get their health care.
Health and Medicine
Community Health Last Updated: 8/31/2004 2:10 AM
Americans are commonly plagued by diarrhea of multiple causes and
upper respiratory infections. Because of its higher standards of
sanitation and living conditions, frequent immunizations, and
preventive medicines, the American community is fairly well isolated
from malaria, tuberculosis, typhoid fever, rabies, and polio.
However, they still occur and reasonable precautions are necessary.
Sanitation throughout Pakistan is a constant problem, although
overall health conditions where Americans live are generally good.
The public water supply is unsafe everywhere and drinking water must
be filtered and boiled. Sewage systems are antiquated or inadequate.
Refuse collection is erratic. The burning of cow dung, leaves, and
garbage often produces irritating dust and smoke. Refrigeration and
sanitary packaging of foodstuffs in public markets are rare. To
avoid enteric disorders, wash all fresh produce in chlorine solution
or cook it thoroughly before eating.
Health and Medicine
Preventive Measures Last Updated: 8/31/2004 2:21 AM
Check your immunization record. If you are entering (or
reentering after a trip) from South American or African countries,
you will need a yellow fever immunization (more easily obtained in
Washington than in Pakistan). For your own protection, also have
typhoid, tetanus, and hepatitis A and B immunizations. Rabies is
endemic in Pakistan, and it is recommended that everyone assigned to
post have the preventive rabies immunization series. Malaria
prophylaxis is recommended and should be initiated 2 weeks before
arrival in Pakistan. Do not neglect your immunizations or booster
shots. Extensive recommendations for preventative health practices
are presented in the Health and Medical Information Booklet
available at post.
Employment for Spouses and Dependents Last Updated: 8/31/2004
2:25 AM
Pakistan Travel Warning, released March 22, 2002, ordered the
departure of all non-emergency personnel and family members of the
US Embassy and Consulates in Pakistan. EFM positions are limited.
American Embassy - Islamabad
Post City Last Updated: 8/31/2004 2:43 AM
Islamabad is a new capital, built on a specially selected site
near the older cantonment town of Rawalpindi. It consists primarily
of government offices, foreign diplomatic missions, and residential
areas for senior government servants and employees of foreign
missions, and has a population of some 350,000. The busy bazaars and
back streets common in other South Asian cities are absent, but the
loss of local color is offset by Islamabad's convenient layout.
Broad avenues, many lined with trees, divide Islamabad into
self-sufficient quarters, each with a central shopping area and a
few neighborhood markets. Islamabad is considerably greener,
quieter, less crowded, and dusty than most cities in this part of
the world. Rawalpindi, 10 miles away and still the major city in the
capital area, is typical of the cantonment towns built by the
British in India and Pakistan during the mid-19th century. These
towns served as residential and operations centers for the British
Army. Rawalpindi, located on the Grand Trunk Road that ran from
Kabul to Calcutta, developed as a transportation, communications,
and administrative center. The city remains an important military
base and is the site of the General Headquarters of the Pakistani
Army and Air Force. Rawalpindi has many narrow back streets that
wind through bustling bazaars as well as the broad, tree-lined
thoroughfares established by the British. Until recently,
Rawalpindi's importance rested on its strategic location for
military operations. Aryan-speakers fought over it in 1400 B.C., and
Alexander the Great arrived in 326 B.C. It was completely destroyed
by the Mongol invasion in the 14th century. The area was part of the
Moghul Empire in the 16th and 17th centuries. Later, the Sikhs
conquered and controlled the area, establishing the largest Sikh
military cantonment at Rawalpindi in the 18th century. The Sikhs
laid down their arms in 1849 to the British 53d Regiment, which then
established its northern command headquarters in Rawalpindi. The
town became one of the largest cantonment stations of the British
Empire. In 1960, Rawalpindi became the interim capital of Pakistan
until Islamabad was constructed and government offices moved there.
The Post and Its Administration Last Updated: 8/31/2004 2:45 AM
The American Embassy moved from Karachi to Rawalpindi in 1966,
then to the diplomatic enclave of the new capital of Islamabad in
1973. The Embassy, destroyed by fire in November 1979 following
violent protests connected with the rumored desecration of holy
places in Saudi Arabia, was rebuilt by 1983. The Executive Office
(Ambassador and DCM), Political Section, Economic Section,
Administrative Section, Personnel Office, General Services Office,
Information Programs Office, Regional Security Office, Narcotics
Affairs Section, Defense Attaché Office, Defense Representative to
Pakistan, Drug Enforcement Administration, Legal Attaché's Office,
Refugee Affairs Office, and the Foreign Agricultural Service are
located in the Chancery. The Health Unit, the newly constructed
Consular building, the new Commissary building, Public Affairs
Office and the American Club are located on the Embassy compound.
The official American community in the Islamabad area consists of
133 employees and contractors. Additionally, the U.S. Government in
Islamabad employs 448 Foreign Service Nationals. Pakistan Travel
warning, released on March 22, 2002, alerted Americans that the
Department has ordered the departure of all non-emergency personnel
and family members of the US Embassy and Consulates in Pakistan.
The main office and telephone number are: American Embassy
Chancery Diplomatic Enclave Ramna 5 Islamabad Tel.: (92)(51)
2080-0000 FAX: (92)(51) 214222 Telex: 82-5864 AEISL PK
Housing
Temporary Quarters Last Updated: 8/31/2004 2:48 AM
Every effort is made to provide permanent housing upon the
employee's arrival. From time to time, however, especially during
busy summer transfer months, it is necessary to provide temporary
housing until permanent quarters are ready for occupancy. Such
housing consists of temporary guesthouses or hotels, such as the
Serena or Marriott Hotel in Islamabad.
Housing
Permanent Housing Last Updated: 8/31/2004 2:53 AM
All housing at post is Embassy-owned or leased and is assigned by
the Housing Board prior to each employee's arrival at post. The
average house in Islamabad has an entrance and a patio and/or
balcony, and servant's quarters. Housing is scattered throughout
Islamabad within a short drive of the Embassy compound in generally
quiet neighborhoods with wide, tree-lined streets. The Embassy
compound has a limited number of furnished apartments (two to three
bedrooms) that are also assigned prior to each employee's arrival
(single females having priority). Each apartment has a small porch
equipped with basic patio furniture.
The U.S. Government pays for utilities and 24/7 guard service for
all employees. Employees pay for their personal telephone,
gardening, and servant services.
Housing
Furnishings Last Updated: 8/31/2004 2:56 AM
All apartments and houses are equipped with basic furniture,
curtains, draperies, lamps, washers and dryers, air conditioners,
vacuum cleaners, heaters, stoves, refrigerators, freezers, and patio
furniture. The master bedroom usually has a queen-sized bed with two
twin-sized beds in other bedrooms. Some people place two twin beds
together, creating a king-sized bed. King-sized bedding is not
available on the local market and should be included in your
shipment.
The Embassy provides each new arrival with a basic Welcome Kit,
which includes dishes, glasses, flatware and utensils, pots and
pans, toaster, bedding, linens, pillows, iron, and ironing board.
Include these items in your airfreight so that the "Welcome Kit" can
be returned as soon as possible for the next new arrival.
Bring linens, silverware, kitchen supplies and utensils, and
glassware. Most of these items are available locally, although
choice of patterns and design is limited. It is possible to rent or
borrow extra silver, glasses, and china for parties. Many of these
items are available on the local market, but they are sometimes
expensive or of inferior quality.
Shipment of household effects from the U.S. East Coast takes 1-3
months.
Housing
Utilities and Equipment Last Updated: 8/31/2004 3:00 AM
Since electricity in Pakistan is 220v, 50 cycles, all U.S.-made
appliances require transformers. The Embassy provides several large
transformers for each house. Adapters to convert U.S.-type plugs to
fit Pakistani outlets for dual voltage appliances or lamps can be
purchased on the local market. There are frequent power outages,
especially in periods of "load shedding" during winter and summer
months. There are also frequent fluctuations in voltage. Therefore,
voltage regulators are recommended for sensitive equipment such as
personal computers, stereos, TVs, VCRs, and microwaves. Voltage
regulators are available locally. Pakistan's power requirements for
TV sets are also 220v, 50 cycles and 625-line PAL European standard.
Quality TV sets (PAL or multi-system) of English, Dutch, and
Japanese origin, comparable to those in the U.S., are available for
purchase in Islamabad and in Peshawar. Many appliances may need
cycle adaptation. It is easier to bring a battery-operated clock
than to adapt an electric one. Many 220v appliances, VCR/DVD/CDs,
tape decks, TVs, small refrigerators, microwaves, stereo systems,
food processors, etc., can be purchased in Islamabad and Peshawar.
The price of items in these stores is less than those found on the
open market.
Food Last Updated: 8/31/2004 3:02 AM
Most newcomers miss some American food items but find a fairly
large range of quality food available in the Embassy commissary and
in Islamabad supermarkets. Locally grown fruits and vegetables are
of high quality and are cheaper than in the U.S. Many imported goods
are available in Islamabad, although sometimes higher in price than
similar items found in the Islamabad commissary. Pakistan is a
Muslim country and pork and alcoholic products cannot be found in
local markets. Wild boar is available locally, if you prefer a
"gamy" taste to your pork. The commissary is the only other source
for pork, pork products, and alcoholic beverages. There is one local
brewery in Pakistan, which sells an "export" quality beer for
Christian Pakistanis and foreigners. Supplies of it are sometimes
available in the commissary. Many Americans shop in local markets
and stores for chicken, beef, veal, lamb, mutton, goat, seafood,
eggs, fresh fruits, and vegetables. Some local meat such as beef
does have a "gamy" taste and may be slightly tougher than that to
which Americans are accustomed. Local chicken is almost always
tougher than that found in the U.S. Meats including chicken may be
bought locally at prices cheaper than those in the commissary.
Bakeries sell a variety of baked goods, croissants, pastries, French
bread, sliced wheat or white sandwich breads, and over-sized hot dog
and hamburger buns. Fresh milk is never available, but long-life
(UHT) milk is available locally and the commissary's supplies
include skim, 2%, and whole milk varieties. Yogurt and tofu are also
available on the local market. Locally bottled soft drinks are both
cheap and available, but the quality is uneven and the taste is
sometimes not good. Quality and availability of fruits and
vegetables vary according to the seasons. Bananas, apples, mangoes,
plums, cherries, pomegranates, strawberries, peaches, plums, citrus
fruits, leeches, grapes, raisins, prunes, and watermelons are of
good quality but seasonal. Lettuce and tomatoes are found
seasonally, and when grown locally they are very good. Other local
vegetables found in season are carrots, cabbages, eggplants,
turnips, cucumbers, cauliflower, artichokes, parsley, green beans,
green peas, onions, potatoes, spinach, bean sprouts, mushrooms,
scallions, Chinese cabbage, pumpkins, peppers, and mustard and
turnip greens. The variety of vegetables tends to diminish during
the rainy season. Produce is inexpensive in season, yet the duration
of the season is limited. Some employees have brought canning
equipment and supplies and some people freeze freshly squeezed
orange juice, which is cheaper in season than the frozen varieties
available in the commissary. Kitchen gardens are common here, so
vegetable and flower seeds should be brought along with gardening
supplies. Local seeds produce well, but U.S. varieties of herbs,
lettuces, radishes, peppers, and greens fare even better. Poor
refrigeration and unhygienic handling of meat, seafood, produce, and
other food items continue to be of concern in Islamabad. Most
seafood is transported by air from Karachi in baskets filled with
ice. Oftentimes these baskets are left to sit outdoors, allowing the
ice to melt and the seafood to thaw. It is more difficult to
guarantee good seafood during the summer months and care should be
taken to purchase food items from established shops. All produce
should be washed thoroughly and meats should be fully cooked
according to the guidelines provided by the Embassy's Health Unit.
Water Water in Pakistan is not potable, however, the American
Embassy does maintain a potable water supply on the compound. All
off post residences have a water purification system. Commissary The
United States Employees Association (USEA) manages the U.S.
commissary. The Commissary is a cooperative with headquarters in
Islamabad and outlets in Lahore and Peshawar. Karachi has a separate
commissary operation. A refundable fee is charged to all persons who
decide to become members of the commissary at a rate of $75 for
Marines, $200 for singles, and $300 for couples. Members may pay
their bill at the time of purchase in cash, traveler's checks, or
U.S. dollar checks. Islamabad's commissary is located on the Embassy
compound and is usually well stocked. The commissary is open every
day but Monday. The commissary receives dry and frozen food
shipments on a regular monthly basis. Most commissary dry and frozen
goods are shipped from the U.S. by boat via Karachi. The shipment is
then transported by road to Islamabad. Transportation and handling
costs are added to the purchase price of the goods, which accounts
for prices being considerably higher than U.S. shelf prices.
Shipping and handling costs vary between 6% and 8% of the price of
an item. Alcohol has an additional mark-up of 45%. Like most
commissaries, supply does not always meet demand. In Islamabad,
delays at the source of supply, in the clearing of goods, and in
transit from Karachi serve to exacerbate the problem. Every effort,
however, is made by USEA management to anticipate such delays, but
it sometimes takes several weeks to restock certain products. Fresh
cheese, yogurt, lettuce, and other vegetables are occasionally
available from Europe especially during the months when these items
are not available locally. While the commissary attempts to meet
every need, if you cannot live without a particular item it is
always best to include it in your airfreight, HHE, or suitcase. The
commissary stocks all essential household needs and carries an ample
supply of canned, packaged, and frozen goods. They include long-life
milk, dairy products, herbs, spices, baking supplies, diet foods,
some ethnic and kosher products, alcoholic beverages, beer, ice
cream, yogurt, pastries, muffins, bagels, some sundries, frozen
breads, soft drinks (regular and diet), ground, instant, and limited
specialty brands of coffee, dog and cat food, cat litter, common
non-prescription pharmaceuticals. The commissary does not sell
tobacco products. The commissary stocks a limited supply and variety
of personal care products such as shampoo, hair conditioner, facial
cream, shaving cream, deodorants, etc. If you prefer certain brands
of health and beauty products bring your own supply. Prices for
imported health and beauty products are considerably higher than
U.S. prices. While some well-known brands are available in the local
market, you may not always find brands that are familiar to you.
Include with you any cosmetics or particular brand of
pharmaceuticals or, alternatively, plan to replenish them with mail
order sources. Some items such as these are available in limited
quantities on the local market, however, prices may be higher than
in the commissary, and items will have often passed their expiration
dates. If you have special dietary or other needs, you should check
with the commissary manager to assess whether a product is
available. Any item(s) that you deem necessary should either be sent
to or brought with you, since there is no guarantee that the
commissary will be able to meet your requests. For those requests
that can be met, special case orders will be placed with the
commissary. Delivery time for special orders is about three to five
months. Paper products bought in the local markets are considerably
higher in price than those found in the U.S. Include toilet paper,
disposable diapers, feminine sanitary products, personal care
products, and other paper items in your shipment as your weight
allowance permits. American tobacco products are available locally
and usually at lower prices than in the U.S. Cafeteria and
Restaurant The Chancery has a cafeteria that serves limited
breakfasts, light snacks, and lunches during office hours. There is
also a canteen on the Embassy compound near the motor pool. The
American Club in Islamabad, located inside the Embassy compound, has
a restaurant open from breakfast through the evening, a bar where
lunch and dinner can be served, and the Terrace Cafe by the pool
serving a limited menu during summer months. All of the
aforementioned dining facilities are operated by USEA.
Clothing Last Updated: 8/31/2004 5:04 AM
Islamabad's weather is basically of two types: 6 months of hot
summer (100°F, half dry and half monsoon rains) and about 4 months
of winter (temperatures sometimes near freezing at night and
40°-60°F in the daytime). In between these seasons are about 2
months with warm days (about 80°F) and cool nights (about 40°F). As
a result, you need a larger supply of light clothing than warmer
winter wear, but both are necessary. Conservative dress codes do not
apply in the American compound. The abundance of at-home dinners and
parties allows American-type fashions to be often worn. A variety of
clothing styles are, therefore, recommended. However, even though
conservative dress codes do not apply on the American Embassy
compound, personnel off compound (especially females) should
remember to be prepared for any unexpected occurrences such as the
breakdown of a car. Thus, it is wise to carry a skirt or wrapper,
which can be put on to conceal shorts or other dress should a
breakdown occur. The national dress is called a "shalwar kameez" and
is a long tunic top worn over a pair of Pajama-type pants. It takes
about 7-1/2 yards of material to make a shalwar kameez. Pakistani
men, women, and children all wear this outfit. A good number of
American women also follow this custom, especially in the hot summer
months. Local tailors will make the shalwar kameez for about $5-7. A
good tailor can copy Western clothing even from a photograph, but
most tailors cannot sew from a pattern. Buttons are available in
limited styles and sizes and not always the quality of U.S. buttons.
Imported zippers are available in limited colors and sizes; long
zippers for women's dresses and jeans zippers are hard to come by.
Local thread is not the best quality but is available in a wide
range of colors. Anchor embroidery floss is available in a limited
selection of colors. Lining material, interfacing, elastic, sequins,
and trims are available. Lightweight cottons are available in
colorful profusion in summer and there is a limited supply of
somber-colored light wool, sturdier cotton, and polyester in winter.
Not all the local fabrics are colorfast though, and calicos, stretch
fabrics, felt, and knits are unavailable. Imported silks are
available. Cotton clothing is advisable for summer, as synthetics
are often sticky in the hot, humid weather. Light wool and polyester
is best for winter. It is difficult to find shoes to fit American
feet or tastes, although some people have been pleased with shoes
they've had copied from shoes brought from home. Shoe repair is
unpredictable. Bring an adequate supply of all types of shoes. This
is especially important if you plan to take part in the many
available sports activities. Winter jackets and accessories are
useful for trips to northern areas. Many Americans in Islamabad make
at least one trip to Murree during the winter to play in the snow.
The annual Marine Ball is a formal (black tie) affair held in
November. Some women have dresses made locally. Others bring a
formal ready-made party dress. Most men bring a tuxedo, but one can
be tailored. Bring an adequate supply of lingerie, underwear,
nylons, socks, and washable sweaters for winter, sport clothes
(e.g., tennis outfits). Do not forget washable lightweight
raincoats, umbrellas, and swimwear. However, one can find in
Pakistan a large quantity of export quality ready-made cotton
clothing available in Islamabad and Lahore stores at prices
considerably lower than U.S. department store prices.
Catalog/Internet purchases are another common way to replenish
wardrobes. Mail order takes about 2-4 weeks for delivery.
Clothing
Men Last Updated: 8/31/2004 5:05 AM
In Pakistan, even men dress conservatively. Men do not wear
shorts in public (although some men do while jogging), nor do they
appear without a shirt. Even small boys will be embarrassed by the
stares and titters they receive if they go shirtless in public.
Clothing
Women Last Updated: 8/31/2004 5:10 AM
Unless assigned to an apartment on the Embassy compound, women
should not bring an abundance of halter-tops, sundresses, shorts,
etc. Pakistan is a Muslim country and these types of clothing are
not acceptable in public. Women must dress modestly in public
(including inside your own house if you have male servants). Women
do not wear short skirts, shorts, or sleeveless or low-cut blouses.
In addition, dress codes vary depending on the city. Islamabad is
somewhat liberal in its acceptance of western dress.
Clothing
Children Last Updated: 8/31/2004 5:11 AM
Pakistan Travel warning, released on March 22, 2002, alerted
Americans that the Department has ordered the departure of all
non-emergency personnel and family members of the US Embassy and
Consulates in Pakistan.
Clothing
Office Attire Last Updated: 8/31/2004 5:12 AM
Acceptable dress for the workplace is similar to that in the U.S.
For a woman, however, the necessity to wear modest clothing should
be considered. During the winter months (mid-December to mid-March),
most men wear long-sleeved shirts and tie. During the warmer summer
months, however, short-sleeved shirts are worn.
Supplies and Services
Supplies Last Updated: 8/31/2004 5:15 AM
Bring or ship whatever you feel is important to your daily life.
Don't replace 110v appliances unless you want to buy 220v here.
Indeed, some people continue to use their American appliances
exclusively. Most items can be found locally or can be ordered from
the U.S. Some important items should be brought along if you have
the weight allowance. Car parts are expensive locally, if they are
available at all. Bring common extra parts (see Transportation).
Shoes are also difficult to find locally. Bring whatever table
linens you have, but do not buy additional tablecloths since table
sizes vary. Local tablecloths and napkins are attractive and
inexpensive. Government-furnished beds are usually queen or
twin-sized. Bring sheets and mattress pads. You can bring (or order
from a catalog) a foam rubber kit to convert twin beds to king-sized
beds. Cotton bedspreads are available locally. Bring useful
miscellaneous items: bicycles (available locally but expensive and,
except for the Chinese-made, of poor quality), parts and tires for
U.S./European bikes, Christmas ornaments, an artificial Christmas
tree (live trees are inexpensive), hobby materials, musical
instruments, basic household tools, canning and freezing equipment,
meat grinder, coffee maker, bread and muffin pans, pie plates, a
good supply of cheap sewing supplies, home decorations, bathroom
accessories including nonskid mats or adhesive strips for tubs,
sporting equipment, nice stationery, flashlights and batteries
(sometimes available at the commissary), curlers and hair dryers,
strongbox for cash, passports, and jewelry, battery-operated clocks,
and reading materials.
Supplies and Services
Basic Services Last Updated: 8/31/2004 5:18 AM
Since families have their washing done at home by a "dhobi"
(laundryman), there is no need for commercial laundry facilities in
Pakistan. Color film can be developed and printed in Pakistan
(usually with 24-hour service for prints and 7-day service for
transparencies or enlargements) at prices below those in the U.S.
The quality of processing varies but is generally good. The
commissary in Islamabad contracts with a local company to offer film
developing. It should be noted, however, that slide development in
Pakistan is limited to Fujichrome and Ektachrome. Bring Kodachrome
mailers from the U.S. Black and white film is available locally but
printed on matte-finish paper only. Black and White glossy prints
are not available. Servicing of electrical appliances may be
unreliable. However, there are one or two places that westerners
frequent for repairs on computers, VCR/DVDs, Nintendos, etc. Limited
automobile repair and maintenance service is available (at low cost
for labor, high for parts). Bring cars for which parts are available
locally and that local mechanics are familiar with (see
Transportation), or else be prepared to provide your own spare
parts. Employees have had mixed experience with fuel injection
vehicles-some mechanics here are not familiar with them. Some
employees, however, have had no trouble with fuel injection engines.
Beauty shops and barbershops are available. Service and quality
varies and can be expensive.
Supplies and Services
Domestic Help Last Updated: 8/31/2004 5:22 AM
Most American households employ at least one domestic employee.
Single employees often share. The quality of domestic staff in
Pakistan varies depending on the length of service and the prior
contact the domestic has had with expatriates. Most domestics who
have worked with foreigners have a working knowledge of English.
Many claim that they are English speakers but experience has proven
that they do not always understand instructions. Pakistan's labor
force is extremely rigid. A cook will cook, and a dhobi washes and
irons. (However, the latter will not sew on a button nor notify the
employer when a button has been removed.) Most domestics will do
only what they are asked to do and nothing more. It is best to hire
a domestic based upon referrals from departing employees or other
domestics. Most domestics require instruction and close supervision
until they have become familiar with their new employer. The
following types of domestic employees are available at post: a cook
or cook-bearer who does the shopping, cooking, serving, some
cleaning, and general supervising of the house; a bearer, who does
most of the housework, helps with serving, and washes dishes; a
sweeper who cleans bathrooms, verandas, walks, and driveways
(usually part-time, but necessary because most indoor servants will
not clean outside areas, floors, or bathrooms, as these are
considered low-class chores); a gardener (mali); and a twice-a-week
laundryman (dhobi). The Embassy provides a 24-hour guard for every
residence. Average monthly salaries for domestic employees are:
cook-$135; bearer-$90; cook-bearer-$110; dhobi-$36; sweeper-$30;
mali-$40. (These are U.S. Dollar equivalents, but domestics are paid
in rupees.) In addition to their salaries, domestics are usually
provided living quarters (at least for the main employee), a bed
(charpoy), uniforms, tea, sugar, and milk (or tea money), time off
(average 4 days a month), and an annual bonus (sometimes split into
two bonuses). Most employers pay for medical examinations and
routine medical expenses. Workmen's compensation for domestic staff
is available locally at low rates. A single person or small family
may need only a cook-bearer and dhobi. Employees and couples who
entertain frequently may split the duties of a cook-bearer between
two servants and add an inside sweeper. Tasks are more rigidly
divided in larger households than in smaller ones. Consideration
must be given to the observance of religious customs, particularly
prayer times, religious holidays, and Ramazan (the month of
fasting). Since personal tastes, family size, etc., influence the
choice of staffs, these decisions should be left until arrival at
post. If, however, your predecessor leaves behind a ready-made staff
that can work together and understand the idiosyncrasies of your
particular fuse box, water system, or garden maintenance, consider
retaining them.
Religious Activities Last Updated: 8/31/2004 5:23 AM
Pakistan is 97% Muslim, but religious minorities are free to
practice their faiths. Proselytizing is subject to restrictions.
Pakistan has about 1.6 million Christians, many of whom live in the
Punjab.
For church services, contact the Human Resources Office for
locations and times.
Education
Higher Education Opportunities Last Updated: 8/31/2004 5:25 AM
Few formal educational opportunities for adults are available.
However, most American universities and colleges provide on-line
courses.
Recreation and Social Life
Sports Last Updated: 8/31/2004 5:31 AM
The USEA operates the American Club in Islamabad located on the
Embassy compound. Full club membership is available to all USG
personnel stationed in Islamabad, including personal services
contractors. American Club memebrship fee is $200/singles and
$300/couples. For those Americans not employed by the U.S.
Government or who are citizens of other nations, membership is
available with some limitations. The American Club has four tennis
courts (two clay and two hard) with two full-time tennis
instructors, an Olympic-size swimming pool, a Universal equipped
exercise/weight room, a volleyball court, a basketball court, a
softball diamond, a soccer field, and a circumferential path used as
a track. The tennis courts are lit for night use and tournaments are
held throughout the year, both within the club and in the
international community. Bring your own tennis equipment and
clothes. The club sells tennis balls and restrings rackets. Rackets
and balls are available on the local market, tennis shoes are
generally inexpensive but of low quality (unless imported). In the
hot weather the pool is a favorite place to relax and enjoy meals
poolside or in the Terrace Cafe. Swimsuits are not available here
and sunblock can be purchased at the commissary and local
pharmacies. The pool is open year round. The Islamabad Club offers
an 18-hole golf course, tennis and squash courts, and horseback
riding. Membership fees are reasonable. Capitol Stables offers
horseback riding and lessons (bring a helmet, riding pants and
boots-British type).
Recreation and Social Life
Touring and Outdoor Activities Last Updated: 8/31/2004 5:38 AM
Due to secutity restrictions, travel within Pakistan is severly
limited. Travel to Lahore, Taxila, Murree, and hiking/biking in the
Margalla Hills may be permissible--with RSO approval.
Recreation and Social Life
Entertainment Last Updated: 8/31/2004 5:40 AM
American movies are provided by ODRP and shown Thursday through
Sunday at 7pm in the Embassy auditorium. A limited amount of
entertainment is available in Pakistan, due to the current security
restrictions. The Marine Guard Detachment sponsors "happy hours" and
other special events throughout the year. The Marine Ball is
considered to be the social event of the year.
Recreation and Social Life
Social Activities
Among Americans Last Updated: 8/31/2004 5:41 AM Social life is
informal and centers around the home or the American Club. Informal
dinners and buffets are the most common entertainment. Parties
within the American community are frequent, especially around
holiday seasons. The American Club sponsors traditional parties at
Christmas, New Year, and Independence Day and for special occasions.
Recreation and Social Life
Social Activities
International Contacts Last Updated: 8/31/2004 5:42 AM Many of
the international social activities are in the diplomatic community.
The most common form of entertainment is the informal buffet dinner.
Small luncheons often associated with a charity are popular. A
Diplomatic Golf Association has social gatherings following its
tournaments. A women's golf group meets weekly for play. Cocktail
parties may be large and official. National Day receptions are an
example of these popular gatherings. Pakistani nationals usually
enjoy attending these and other international events. Many
Pakistanis enjoy entertaining Americans and appreciate return
invitations. It is not unusual for a husband to attend without his
wife, and it should not disturb the host if no advance warning is
given. Should you visit a home where women are secluded, it is
important for the female guests to pay their respects by visiting
the women's area of the house. If you receive an invitation to a
wedding celebration, you may want to ask for details as to what you
will encounter. A city wedding may be an elaborate affair in a
hotel, but a country wedding could mean a long walk on rough paths
to a village.
Official Functions
Nature of Functions Last Updated: 8/31/2004 5:43 AM
Representational and official functions fall into the same
pattern as unofficial entertaining. Buffet dinners and small
luncheons are common, as are medium-to-large cocktail receptions and
cocktail buffets. Official entertaining is more formal than
unofficial entertaining, but black tie events are rare. Senior
officers can expect to give and attend a considerable number of
official functions. The demands on junior members of the staff are
lighter.
Official Functions
Standards of Social Conduct Last Updated: 8/31/2004 5:46 AM
In place of business cards, the Embassy circulates among the
other foreign missions notification of the arrival and departure of
diplomatic staff members. Officers frequently use business cards
when meeting with government officials and foreign diplomatic
colleagues. In addition, business cards may be used within the U.S.
Mission. An officer will need at least 200 cards during a tour.
Principal officers may have need of several hundred cards. After
arrival, employees can order both business cards and a small supply
of fold-over or note-size informal cards with engraved initials or
name for coffee, tea, and luncheon invitations, if required.
Engraved and printed cards are available locally and are much
cheaper than in the U.S. For employees without diplomatic status,
cards are not obligatory, but are useful for notes and invitations.
Printed invitations are available locally at very inexpensive
prices. GSO will reimburse the cost of business cards. Protocol
requirements within the Mission are generally light, and specific
guidelines are given to new arrivals.
Special Information Last Updated: 8/31/2004 5:48 AM
In 1956, Pakistan was proclaimed an Islamic Republic; Islam is,
therefore, part of Pakistan's national identity. Some understanding
of Islam and the social pattern it encourages is essential for
Americans living in Pakistan. In general, good taste and common
sense will tell you how to avoid offending your Muslim
acquaintances, but a few specific points may be helpful. For
example, men shake hands with men without hesitation, but it is a
good idea to wait for a woman to extend her hand first in greeting.
The custom of "purdah," strict seclusion and veiling of women, is
gradually disappearing as more educated Pakistani women take their
places in public life. Purdon is still observed, especially in small
towns and rural areas, where women may still wear the burka, a
traditional black veil and coat. Even among the unveiled, a certain
reticence persists about socializing outside the home. In many
cases, this is reinforced by the husband's attitude. A Pakistani
guest may commonly appear at a dinner party without his wife whether
or not she observes purdah. This tradition also accounts for the
advice that women should cover-up when in public areas. The crowd in
the bazaar, for instance, is unaccustomed to seeing bare arms and
short sleeves on a woman, and can lead to unwanted jostling and
touching. Staring is culturally common, and while at times
discomforting it should not be considered threatening. Propriety is
particularly important when visiting a mosque. Shoes are always
removed for visits to mosques and holy places. The public
consumption of alcohol is banned in Pakistan. Foreigners registered
in international hotels can get a permit to be served alcoholic
beverages. These drinks are expensive. In their own homes, Americans
are free to follow their usual customs concerning liquor. One should
not offer alcohol to a Muslim Pakistani. It is thoughtful to have an
adequate supply of soft drinks and juices for your Pakistani guests.
Devout Muslims will not eat or touch pork; some cannot bear the
sight of it. To avoid embarrassment, do not serve pork or foods
containing pork when Muslim guests are present. Some Muslim servants
object to cooking pork. Some Muslims consider dogs unclean. Family
pets should be confined when Pakistanis are in your home. It is a
good idea to keep your dog away from maintenance workers when they
are in your house. Ramadan is a religious period observed by
abstaining from eating, drinking, or smoking from sunrise to sunset
for one month. You will want to refrain from daytime entertaining of
your Pakistani friends during this month and should be considerate
of your servants' physical limitations.
Photographs should be taken with discretion to avoid giving
offense. Always obtain permission before photographing people,
particularly women. For security reasons, it is also forbidden to
photograph military installations, airports, and bridges.
Post Orientation Program The Personnel Office has a check-in
procedure designed to take care of the paperwork involved in moving
to a new post. The Human Resources Office assigns a sponsor who
meets the newcomer at the airport, assists in completion of check-in
duties, helps familiarize the newcomer with the post, and assists
new arrivals in settling into their homes and the general community.
This assistance may include showing newcomers around the compound,
arranging a trip to the commissary, a shopping trip in Islamabad, or
help in finding domestic employees. A mandatory security briefing by
the RSO office will be provided to all employees every Tuesday after
arrival at post. For interested employees, the Human Resources
Office encourages participation in the Urdu language program.
Consulate General - Karachi
Post City Last Updated: 8/31/2004 6:44 AM
Karachi is Pakistan's largest and most cosmopolitan city. As the
center of Pakistan's economic, commercial, and communications
activity, it links areas inside the country with the rest of the
world through both its port and its international airport. Located
northwest of the mouth of the Indus River, Karachi separates the
blue waters of the Arabian Sea from the brown sands of the Sindh
Desert and is the gateway to the fertile region of the Punjab, the
historic Northwest Frontier, and to Afghanistan. A four-lane highway
connects Karachi with Hyderabad, located 2 hours northeast on the
Indus River, and continues as a narrow road 800 miles north to
Lahore (a 2-3 day trip). Karachi's excellent harbor is the source of
both business and pleasure. It serves as the center of Pakistan's
sea borne trade, which consists largely of textile goods, and also
as a place to boat and fish. Unlike other Pakistani cities, Karachi
has a short history. A hundred years ago, it was a small fishing
village with a ditch called "Karachi-jo-Kun." When the Suez Canal
opened for international shipping in 1865, the British needed a
nearby seaport. They developed the harbor and built the fishing
village into a city of close to 300,000 people. However, up to
partition in 1947, Bombay, now in India, served as the major harbor
for the eastern region of former British India. Following
independence, Karachi, as Pakistan's only major harbor, took on new
significance and rapidly expanded to its present population of about
10 million people. Though Karachi has few of the architectural and
historical attractions that distinguish Lahore, Peshawar, or other
areas, it is the main commercial, financial, and industrial center
in Pakistan. Teeming with the undisciplined traffic of a variety of
vehicles, Karachi is a vibrant place in which to live and work.
The Post and Its Administration Last Updated: 8/31/2004 6:45 AM
Karachi at present houses 15 official Americans and 7 Marines.
All offices are located in the Consulate General Building at 8
Abdullah Haroon Road, near the city's main commercial area. Duty
hours are 8:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., Monday through Friday. The duty
officer may be reached at any hour by calling (92)(21) 5685170-9.
APO mailing addresses are: STATE: (Name) AmConGen-Karachi Unit
62400, (Box #) APO AE 09814-2400 Marines: (Name) AmConGen-Karachi
Unit 62402 APO AE 09814-2402 New employees are met at the airport by
a customs expediter and an American sponsor. Cable flight
arrangements and arrival date to the management officer as early as
possible.
Housing Last Updated: 12/31/1999 6:00 PM
Housing assignments are made by the GSO in collaboration with the
Inter-Agency Housing Board. Contact the GSO as early as possible
regarding any special requirements or concerns.
Housing
Temporary Quarters Last Updated: 8/31/2004 6:46 AM
Permanently assigned housing is usually ready for occupancy on
arrival. Temporary assignments are sometimes made to other
government-provided quarters pending readiness of permanent
quarters. Newcomers are rarely housed in nearby hotels while
awaiting permanent housing.
Housing
Permanent Housing Last Updated: 8/31/2004 6:46 AM
Housing for Consulate General personnel is located in two secure
compounds in better areas of the city. Both housing compounds are
well protected with drop bars, police and local guard force
personnel stationed at each entry point. Additionally, a local guard
is posted at every residence and roving patrols make regular rounds.
All houses have alarm systems, including panic buttons, and safe
havens equipped with radios.
The Frere Hall compound houses the Consul General's residence,
several single family and duplex houses, the Marine House and the
American Club. Located very close to the consulate office building,
Frere Hall also contains a tennis court and small pool (on the
grounds of the Consul General's residence) and the Marine Gym, which
permanent and American TDY personnel are allowed to use with the
permission of the MSG Detachment Commander. All the buildings at
Frere Hall are government-owned and are of masonry construction.
Stone and terrazzo tile are common. Rooms are large with high
ceilings, but living space is not always efficiently planned. Most
homes have balconies or patios, and small yards or gardens. Kitchens
and bathrooms are relatively modern.
The Askari housing compound is located about 10 minutes away from
the consulate office building. The houses at Askari are large leased
single-family residences, most of which have been converted into
duplex units. Constructed only recently, each unit is spacious with
marble floors, high ceilings and up-to-date kitchens and bathrooms.
Every house has balconies, patios and small yard.
Housing
Furnishings Last Updated: 8/31/2004 6:45 AM
Government housing is provided with all basic furnishings,
including lamps, draperies, carpeting, and basic patio furniture.
Major appliances provided include air-conditioners, water heaters,
space heaters, kitchen stoves, refrigerators, freezers, washing
machines, and gas dryers. Pakistani garden tools are also provided.
Bring small kitchen appliances, irons, ironing boards, and other
personal effects. Video cassette recorders are popular, as are
stereos. Sporting goods, including accessories for beach trips,
hunting trips, or other excursions are useful.
A Welcome Kit and basic supply of food are placed in the houses
of new arrivals. Since the Welcome Kit is basic (pots, pans, dishes,
and linens), it is intended to serve only until the arrival of an
employee's airfreight, which is usually cleared quickly after
arrival in Karachi.
Housing
Utilities and Equipment Last Updated: 8/31/2004 6:47 AM
Electricity in Pakistan is 220 volt/50 cycle, which means that
all appliances made to U.S. domestic standards (110/60) require
transformers. The Consulate supplies transformers in limited numbers
and additional units can be purchased locally at moderate prices.
Each housing unit is equipped with a standby generator, making truly
disruptive power outages rare. Uninterruptible power supplies and
quality surge protectors are recommended for computers and other
sensitive electronics. Karachi's landline and cellular telephone
infrastructure are modern and reliable. The American Consulate
Employee Association Karachi (ACEAK) provides cable television with
extensive English language programming as well as high-speed DSL
internet service to all residences for a reasonable monthly fee.
ACEAK also provides Armed Forces Radio and Television Service free
of charge. Multi-system televisions are recommended in order to
receive all types of cable and satellite broadcasts. All utilities,
with the exception of telephone, cable and internet, are provided
free of cost by the Consulate.
Food Last Updated: 8/31/2004 6:48 AM
Food stores in Karachi sell dry and frozen goods but are not up
to Western standards of quality or variety. Imported goods are
available in uncertain quantities and at higher prices. The ACEAK
commissary stocks a limited range of hard to find products.
Employees should be cautious when purchasing dairy products. Many
employees use long-life products from the commissary and make
homemade yogurt and ice cream. Fresh meat, including lamb, beef, and
veal, is available in local markets at very reasonable prices.
American cuts are not available, however, and quality is sometimes
below Western standards. Local meat must be cooked thoroughly to
prevent parasitic infection. Seafood is readily available. Snapper,
king mackerel, pomfret (a pan or grill fish), shrimp, and crab are
relatively expensive staples. Karachi's commissary is located on the
Consulate compound. All American direct- hires and contractors whose
contracts so stipulate may use its facilities. The commissary
requires a refundable deposit of $150 for singles and $300 for
married couples. Marine Security Guards are exempted from this
requirement. The commissary carries an ample supply of canned,
packaged and frozen foodstuffs, as well as soft drinks, beer, wine
and liquor. Sundries and pet supplies are limited in kind and
quantity. Commissary prices are slightly higher than U.S. retail
prices.
Clothing Last Updated: 12/31/1999 6:00 PM
Karachi’s winter is delightful, but unfortunately, lasts only
about 8–10 weeks. From December to late February, temperatures vary
from 50°F at night to 80ºF in the daytime.
Summer weather is quite hot and humid and usually lasts from the
end of February to November. A larger supply of light clothing is
needed than in Washington. All-cotton and drip-dry fabrics are the
most comfortable; synthetic fibers are sticky in the hot, humid
weather.
The Consulate General office building and U.S. Government houses
are air-conditioned, but most shops and other buildings are cooled,
if at all, by electric fans.
Because the winter is short and not very cold, winter suits,
dresses, and coats are rarely worn, but a sweater or evening wrap is
useful. Attractive shawls are available locally and are often used
to keep the chill off during winter evenings. The most practical
winter fabric is washable synthetic knit, but regular wash-and-wear
and summer clothing may be worn throughout the year.
Except for locally embroidered things for women and children,
local ready-made clothing is not satisfactory. Local dressmakers and
tailors can make better clothing to order for women and girls than
for men and boys, although men’s casual wear or “bush suits” are
well made and attractive. Tailoring and dressmaking services are
available to make, alter or repair clothing. Quality of work varies,
but with a little trial and error you can usually find a good
tailor. Some tailors can copy from pictures, but a few have
Western-style patterns and most do best by copying an existing piece
of clothing. Fabrics available locally include plain wash-and-wear,
washable woolen and cotton prints, and silks, all of which must be
checked for color fastness.
Those desiring ready-made clothing should bring an ample supply.
You can also order from J. C. Penney, Spiegel, and other mail-order
firms; delivery takes about 2–6 weeks by APO. In any case, bring an
adequate supply of lingerie, underwear, hose, socks, washable
sweaters, and bathing suits and caps. Bring baby supplies such as
rubber pants, diapers or Pampers, underwear, and pajamas. Get as
many washable things as possible, and avoid “dry-clean only”
clothing if possible.
Bring an adequate supply of shoes. Locally made sneakers and
sandals are cheap and reasonably good. Other shoes are available,
but many find the style, fit or quality unacceptable. Some people
have had trouble finding properly fitting children’s shoes.
Clothing
Men Last Updated: 8/31/2004 6:49 AM
Local taste and tailoring in men’s clothing are similar to that
in the U.S. Coats and ties may be worn year round in the office,
although they are not required. During the long, hot summer,
entertainment is usually casual and either short-sleeved or sport
shirts are worn. Black tie attire is used perhaps twice a year.
Clothing
Women Last Updated: 8/31/2004 6:49 AM
Women's dress tends to be more modest than in the U.S. Women are
advised to wear skirts with hemlines below the knees and to avoid
low necked or sleeveless dresses, or tight, revealing pants while in
public. Shorts are not appropriate. Cocktail dresses or pants
outfits are worn for evening entertainment. Formal dresses are
needed only a few times a year.
Supplies and Services
Supplies Last Updated: 12/31/1999 6:00 PM
See Islamabad.
Supplies and Services
Domestic Help Last Updated: 8/31/2004 6:53 AM
Household help is readily available, though it often takes a few
tries before finding compatible help. Full-time general-purpose
servants earn $100 - $150 per month, with gardeners earning $70 -
$80.
Consulate - Lahore
Post City Last Updated: 8/31/2004 5:49 AM
Lahore is a city of 5 million people, 800 miles north-northeast
of Karachi (1-1/2 hours by jet), and 170 miles south-southeast of
Islamabad (35 minutes by jet). Lahore lies 17 miles west of the
Indian border, 700 feet above sea level, in the middle of the Great
Punjab Alluvial Plain. It is Pakistan's second largest city after
Karachi. Lahore has been the capital of several empires in the
subcontinent, with a history going back at least 1,000 years. The
old city and its environs have many examples of the art and
architecture of the Moghul empire, such as the Lahore Fort, Badshahi
Mosque, Emperor Jahangir's Tomb, and the Shalimar Gardens. The city
was the capital of the Sikh empire in the late 18th and early 19th
centuries. One pleasant legacy of British rule (1849-1947) is
Lahore's wide, tree-lined streets. Extensive suburbs have repeated
this pattern. Today, Lahore is the capital of Pakistan's largest and
most populous province. The Punjab, heartland of Pakistan, produces
69% of Pakistan's agricultural output. It is a major governmental,
political, media, cultural, and economic center. Two of the
country's largest engineering firms are located in Lahore, as is the
headquarters of the Water and Power Development Authority (WAPDA)
and the Pakistani railway system. In addition, hundreds of
industrial firms produce textiles, steel products, carpets,
processed food, shoes, electric motors, and a wide variety of
consumer goods. Lahore has the country's two largest printing
plants; newspaper circulation is the largest in the country. Six
English dailies and two English weeklies are available. Lahore has
two major universities: the University of the Punjab and the
Pakistan University of Engineering and Technology, along with many
training institutions. The private Lahore University of Management
Sciences is a leading business school. The Lahore Museum, the oldest
in the country, has outstanding examples of the nation's heritage.
The city is on the Ravi River, one of the five great rivers from
which the Punjab (Persian for "five rivers") takes its name. The
climate is delightful from November to April. December and January
are dry and almost cold with night temperatures occasionally
dropping to near freezing. Summer starts with dry, very hot days in
May and becomes humid from June through August, with daytime
temperatures regularly reaching 100ºF for weeks and occasionally
soaring to 114ºF. Activities slow down markedly during summer.
Monsoon showers give some relief from the hot summer breezes and
dust storms, but increase the humidity to uncomfortable levels.
Temperate weather returns at the beginning of October. Air quality
is noticeably affected by industrial pollution, dust, and pollen in
summer and smoke in winter.
The Post and Its Administration Last Updated: 8/31/2004 5:50 AM
Lahore has 9 official Americans all of whom are with the
Department of State. The Consulate (tel. (92)(42) 636-5530; FAX no.
(92)(42) 636-5177) was established in 1947 and is located at 50
Empress Road. It is located in a new and modern office building,
opened in July 1991. Duty hours are 8:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., Monday
through Friday. The APO mailing address is: (Name) AmConsul Lahore
Unit 62216 APO AE 09812-2216
Housing
Temporary Quarters Last Updated: 8/31/2004 5:51 AM
The Pearl Continental and the Avari Hotel can provide temporary
housing in Lahore. The daily cost of a room at either hotel is about
$101 for a single room and $125 for a double room. Meals cost about
$25 per day.
Housing
Permanent Housing Last Updated: 8/31/2004 5:51 AM
Personnel will find government-furnished quarters awaiting them.
Homes are mostly located in three residential sections of the city.
The Principal Officer's residence in the Gulberg area has adequate
representational space and four bedrooms. Houses in Lahore are large
by American standards with large yards, but the newest housing may
have smaller outdoor areas. Residences are constructed of masonry
and have airy rooms with high ceilings, terraces, verandas, and
screened windows. Ceiling fans and air-conditioners keep the rooms
cool. Most residences and apartments have servants' quarters.
Housing
Furnishings Last Updated: 8/31/2004 5:53 AM
Ship little or no furniture. Quarters are supplied with basic
appliances, carpets, and furniture. Some units have one double or
queen-sized bed, although many have twin beds. Check with your
agency before shipping fitted sheets. State Department employees are
provided automatic washers and dryers, room heaters, vacuum
cleaners, and trash cans. Each agency's standards vary, but tenants
usually are provided with a choice of new draperies and upholstery.
Bring comfort items such as special lamps, bric-a-brac, throw rugs,
pictures, electrical appliances, radios, VCR/DVD/CDs, cassette
players, etc. Include only sturdy pans and working utensils.
Detailed inventories may be obtained from each agency's
administrative officer. The Welcome Kit, you are lent on arrival,
contains dishes, glasses, pots and pans, towels, and sheets. State
Department has a list of suggestions for your airfreight.
Housing
Utilities and Equipment Last Updated: 8/31/2004 5:54 AM
Utilities, except telephones, are paid in the government owned
and leased quarters, as are night-guard services. A gardener is
provided at the Principal Officer's residence. Electric power
failures and scheduled outages occur frequently in Lahore. In the
winter, "load shedding" is scheduled daily. Residences are equipped
with emergency generators that permit refrigerators and freezers to
function, as well as emergency lighting. The power may build up to
250-280v, and the usual step-down transformers offer U.S.-made
appliances limited protection. Voltage regulators with automatic
cutouts should be used for VCRs, stereos, and small appliances.
These regulators are available locally in a wide variety of models.
Transformers and some voltage regulators are supplied with State
housing. Other agencies issue transformers and regulators to meet
normal requirements. The average charge for local telephone service
is less than $20 a month. It is difficult to obtain a phone for a
new house. Telephone service is erratic; wrong numbers and crossed
lines are frequent. Calling the U.S. direct is possible if the
telephone has that facility or, if not, by booking a call via the
operator.
Food Last Updated: 8/31/2004 5:55 AM
With the exception of chicken, meat is not sold in shops or
restaurants on Tuesday or Wednesday in Lahore. Meat and meat cuts
are different from those in the U.S. Meat must be well cooked, since
markets often have no refrigeration. High quality seasonal fruit and
vegetables are available, including bananas, oranges, grapes,
tangerines, mangoes, pomegranates, apples, peaches, melons,
apricots, potatoes, green beans, carrots, onions, tomatoes, green
peppers, broccoli, okra, ginger, cucumbers, eggplants, and peas. For
commissary information, see Food-Islamabad.
Clothing Last Updated: 8/31/2004 5:56 AM
Dress in Lahore outside the office is much more conservative than
in Islamabad. American women employees generally wear Western
clothes to work. Conservative Western dress is often acceptable
outside the office, but many foreign women feel more comfortable in
a shalwar kameez (Pakistani national dress) or slacks with a loose,
thigh-length, long-sleeved blouse with a high neck. Either western
or Pakistani dress is acceptable at evening functions, except that
long dresses or skirts are rarely worn. Clothing for social
functions, particularly weddings, is sometimes quite dressy. Sandals
are popular for daytime and eveningwear. All-cotton clothing,
including underwear, is most comfortable in hot weather. Dry
cleaning service is unreliable, and clothing wears rapidly due to
the need for frequent washing. Women should be well covered all year
round. Tight-fitting or low-cut clothing, sleeveless or halter-tops
are not acceptable in Lahore. Western style ladies wear is not
available in local stores. If you intend to use local tailors, bring
a supply of buttons, interfacing, zippers, thread, and especially
elastic. Locally made items of this type are often not satisfactory.
Tailoring is cheap but not always of good quality. Tailors usually
do not follow patterns, but can copy clothing. A woman's blouse
costs about $10 to make, pants $15. Men's pants can be made for $20
and a suit for $70 to $90. See also Clothing-Islamabad.
Supplies and Services
Supplies Last Updated: 8/31/2004 5:57 AM
See Islamabad.
Supplies and Services
Domestic Help Last Updated: 8/31/2004 5:58 AM
Help is plentiful, but good servants are scarce and becoming more
expensive. Current monthly estimates are: cook $100–120; bearer $80;
gardener $60–70; laundryman $20–30.
Religious Activities Last Updated: 8/31/2004 5:58 AM
English-language religious services are readily available at
Anglican, Roman Catholic, and Seventh-Day Adventist churches. The
International Christian Fellowship, an interdenominational
English-language congregation that meets in the Chapel of Forman
Christian College, also conducts services. Also, there is a Church
of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints. No Jewish services are
available in Lahore.
Education
Dependent Education
At Post Last Updated: 8/31/2004 5:59 AM
Recreation and Social Life
Sports Last Updated: 8/31/2004 6:02 AM
Some sports equipment, when locally available, is reasonable in
price, but not always of high quality. Excellent locally made squash
racquets may be bought here but bring a supply of golf and tennis
balls. Hobby materials are generally unavailable or expensive.
Recreation and Social Life
Entertainment Last Updated: 8/31/2004 6:03 AM
Dinners and parties in private homes are the most common form of
entertainment. Lahore is often said to have the best restaurants in
Pakistan, offering Continental, Chinese, and Pakistani cuisine. The
Lahore American Club (LAC) is open to all official Americans. A bar,
restaurant, billiards and darts room, tennis court, and other
attractions make LAC a center of community life. A swimming pool is
also available at the Consulate.
Ample opportunities exist to study area history and culture and
to acquire folk products and art objects. Shopping, especially for
Oriental/Pakistani rugs, is a favorite event.
PTV, the Lahore government-run television station has a 10-minute
nightly news program in English. There may also be a rerun of an
English or U.S. program. A second, privately owned and operated
channel began operation in 1991. STN runs many U.S. and British
reruns and several hours of CNN programming around the clock.
Pakistani television is on the PAL system which is not compatible
with the standard U.S. system. Indian television may also be viewed
in Lahore. No local FM radio exists, and English language short-wave
reception is only fair. Pre-recorded cassette tapes are readily
available. CDs are difficult to obtain. The American Women’s Club is
active and provides opportunities for meeting people as does the
International Women’s Club.
In 1977 the Government of Pakistan passed legislation
dramatically restricting the consumption of alcoholic beverages.
Some hotels have “bars” where foreigners and non-Muslims with the
proper permits can purchase a limited selection of alcoholic
beverages, but at exorbitant prices.
Special Information Last Updated: 8/31/2004 6:05 AM
Mail. Lahore post currently receives mail via APO every day,
except Mondays. Mail is sent out via APO 3 times a week. The State
bag is sent out twice a week.
Household Effects. Consign airfreight directly to Lahore.
Seafreight is normally sent via the port of Karachi. Goods cannot be
cleared through customs until the employee has arrived at post.
Special Note. A car is essential in Lahore. Local mass
transportation is prohibitted.
See Transportation—The Host Country.
Consulate - Peshawar
Post City Last Updated: 8/31/2004 6:28 AM
Peshawar, an ancient city in the heart of the Northwest Frontier
Province (NWFP), lies 15 miles east of the famous Khyber Pass, 35
miles from the Afghanistan border, and close to the Pakhtun tribal
agencies. The city, with a population of approximately 1,000,000,
lies on a flat plain surrounded by mountains on three sides. For
most visitors, Peshawar has three main districts: the Old City, the
Cantonment area, and University Town. The Old City resembles a
typically busy Central Asian town with a colorful bazaar teeming
with people and vehicles. Multi-storied houses with elaborate
latticework and balconies line the narrow twisting streets. The
Cantonment, in contrast, has a suburban atmosphere with spacious
houses set back from broad, tree-lined avenues. Much of the
Cantonment area is occupied by military installations of the
Pakistan Army and Air Force. University Town, a modern district of
Peshawar, is located west of the airport and south of the university
campus. The NWFP and Peshawar host well over a million Afghan
refugees, many of who have established businesses and who have
integrated into the economy and life of the region. Pakhtun Culture.
Pakhtuns represent the dominant ethnic group in the NWFP. Although
cultural mores are slowly changing, particularly in Peshawar,
Pakhtun culture remains conservative and religious. The "Pakhtun
Code" (Pakhtunwali) is still defined in terms of three basic
concepts: "melmastia" - hospitality to every guest, not only
providing food and shelter but also protection; "badal" - revenge
under any circumstance; and "nanawati" - obligation to protect or
forgive an offender who is seeking forgiveness. The Pakhtunwali,
however, extends beyond these three concepts. According to Pakhtuns,
any action that upholds honor represents a part of Pakhtunwali. As a
result, Pakhtun men are greatly protective of their women and their
honor. Although education is slowly preparing Pakhtun women for a
more public role, few Pakhtun women work outside of the home or
participate actively in public affairs. Pakhtun culture is
especially strong in the tribal areas that encompass the western
third of the province. The federal government administers these
areas, and life there remains subject to tribal rules.
Security Last Updated: 8/31/2004 6:29 AM
Peshawar and the surrounding tribal areas can be dangerous to
uninitiated newcomers. Although the indiscriminate bombings, which
were a hallmark of terrorist campaigns in Peshawar at the height of
the Afghan conflict, have largely disappeared, random violence in
the city continues to be a problem and could threaten the security
of expatriate residents. Visitors should travel with U.S. Government
Agency officials, volunteer agency representatives, or with a
reputable travel guide. Travelers should only provide personal
information and trip schedules to authorized government and hotel
officials. The Government of Pakistan must approve all visits to the
tribal areas, including the Khyber Pass. Such visits are normally
limited to daylight hours and special permits (obtained by the
Embassy or the Consulate with a two-week's advance notice) are
required.
The Post and Its Administration Last Updated: 8/31/2004 6:30 AM
There are 12 full-time direct-hire Americans (including two DEA
agents) assigned to the Consulate. The DEA office is located in
University Town. The Consulate and the Principal Officer's residence
are located in the U.S. Government-owned compound at 11 Hospital
Road in the Cantonment. The telephone number is (92)(091)279801-3,
and the FAX number is (92)(091)284171. Office hours are 8:00 a.m. to
4:30 p.m. Monday through Friday.
The APO mailing address is: (Your Name) Unit 62217 - Peshawar APO
AE 09812-2217
Housing Last Updated: 7/21/2003 1:52 AM
The Principal Officer's residence is a large, 14-room house
facing a spacious garden. A large living room and dining room, a
small study downstairs, spacious verandas and two guest bedrooms
with baths make the house well suited for entertaining and
accommodating guests. Other USG employees in Peshawar are assigned
to government-furnished housing in University Town. Since there are
no apartments in Peshawar suitable for USG employees, staff members
live in large single-family homes, many with pleasant gardens. For
information on furniture, furnishings, utilities, and equipment, see
related entries for Islamabad.
Housing
Temporary Quarters Last Updated: 8/31/2004 6:32 AM
Temporary staff may be housed in an USG-leased house in
University Town, in one of the guest rooms of the Khyber Club, or at
the Pearl Continental Hotel.
Housing
Permanent Housing Last Updated: 8/31/2004 6:31 AM
The Principal Officer's residence is a large, 14-room house
facing a spacious garden. A large living room and dining room, a
small study downstairs, spacious verandas and two guest bedrooms
with baths make the house well suited for entertaining and
accommodating guests. Other USG employees in Peshawar are assigned
to government-furnished housing in University Town. Since there are
no apartments in Peshawar suitable for USG employees, staff members
live in large single-family homes, many with pleasant gardens. For
information on furniture, furnishings, utilities, and equipment, see
related entries for Islamabad.
Housing
Furnishings Last Updated: 8/31/2004 6:33 AM
For Furnishings, Utilities, and Equipment, see entries for
Islamabad.
Housing
Utilities and Equipment Last Updated: 8/31/2004 6:33 AM
For Furnishings, Utilities, and Equipment, see entries for
Islamabad.
Food Last Updated: 8/31/2004 6:34 AM
Peshawar maintains a small but generally well-stocked commissary
that carries many items needed to supplement available goods on the
local market. Frozen meat (including pork products), fish, frozen
goods, and a wide variety of vegetables and fruits are available
year round. The commissary only carries a limited supply and variety
of personal care products.
Clothing Last Updated: 8/31/2004 6:35 AM
The Northwest Frontier Province is conservative in both custom
and practice and both men and women must be modestly clothed at all
times. Wearing of form-fitting and tight clothing for either sex is
not appropriate and should be avoided. Men should not wear shorts or
sleeveless shirts in public and women should wear trousers and long
(to the hip or below) overshirts. Pakistani women almost never wear
dresses or skirts, but ankle length dresses or skirts with long
sleeves may be acceptable for foreigners. Acceptable dress for the
work place is similar to that in the United States. For men, slacks
and an open collar shirt are appropriate for the office, while a
coat and tie are appropriate for calls on government officials and
at official functions. Western women generally wear slacks and long
(to the hip or below) overshirts or jackets. During the warm summer
months, short sleeve shirts are worn. Jackets and blazers are
useful. Fabrics can be found in local markets and stores at
reasonable prices, but tailoring is of uneven quality.
Supplies and Services
Supplies Last Updated: 8/31/2004 6:36 AM
The electrical current is 220v, 50 Hz. Computers, stereo
components, VCRs, radios, televisions, and other sensitive
electronic equipment require voltage regulators (available locally)
due to frequent voltage fluctuations. Laundry, dry-cleaning, film
developing, and barber and hair dressing facilities are available in
Peshawar. Slide film is not locally available, nor is slide
developing reliable. Several bookstores sell office supplies, maps,
magazines, and a wide variety of hard cover and paperback English
books. Individuals coming on permanent assignment should strongly
consider importing or purchasing a right-hand-drive vehicle; driving
is precarious for those negotiating the NWFP roads in
left-hand-drive vehicles. Repair parts are available for most
right-hand-drive Japanese automobiles. (For details on vehicle
issues see Islamabad.)
Religious Activities Last Updated: 8/31/2004 6:37 AM
Protestant and Catholic services are available.
Recreation and Social Life
Sports Last Updated: 8/31/2004 6:39 AM
Peshawar has three clubs: the Peshawar Golf Club with an
excellent 18-hole course; the Peshawar Club which offers swimming,
squash, and year-round tennis on grass courts; and the Khyber Club
(Peshawar American Club) with two clay tennis courts, a swimming
pool, and a basketball court. The Pearl Continental Hotel offers a
health club and pool. A fitness room, located in the same compound
as the commissary in University Town, equipped with a universal gym
and aerobic machines is available to USG personnel.
Recreation and Social Life
Touring and Outdoor Activities Last Updated: 8/31/2004 6:40 AM
The Khyber Pass, a famous historical landmark 15 miles from
Peshawar on the main road to Afghanistan, traces the path conquerors
of the subcontinent traveled centuries ago. The Kohat Pass, less
well known, but more spectacular than the Khyber Pass, is also
nearby. Visits to these areas may be restricted because of tribal
unrest or other security conditions. Chitral, the northernmost
mountain district in the NWFP, is accessible by scheduled air
service from Peshawar and by road between May and November (road
conditions depend on snowfall). Chitral offers dramatic views of
26,000-foot Tirich Mir, fine trout fishing, visits to spectacular
mountain terrain including the three valleys which are home to the
non-Islamic Kalash "kafirs."
The Northwest Frontier Province has numerous significant
archaeological sites dating back to the 2,400-year-old Buddhist
Gandhara civilization. One of the most important sites is the
Buddhist monastery at Takht-i-Bhai, near Mardan. The Peshawar Museum
holds one of the finest collections of Gandhara civilization
statuary, including the famous "Starving Buddha."
Recreation and Social Life
Entertainment Last Updated: 8/31/2004 6:42 AM
The Khyber Club has a large collection of DVD movies. Internet
access through dial-up connections is available through a number of
reliable and inexpensive Internet service providers. There are
several good Pakistani, Afghan, and Chinese restaurants in Peshawar.
The Khyber Club also has a restaurant and a lively members-only bar.
In accordance with local law, Muslims and Pakistani citizens may not
be served alcohol. Most expatriate tourists stay at the modern Pearl
Continental Hotel or the Khyber Club which also rents rooms.
Peshawar remains famous for its Afghan carpets, tribal jewelry,
lapis, and furniture. More than a hundred carpet shops offer a wide
variety of Afghan carpets, kilims, and other woven products. The
Shinwari Plaza in the Old City offers a wide array of tribal
jewelry, old coins, war medals, lapis and other semi-precious
stones, and modern Pakistani gold jewelry. Peshawar's furniture
makers craft excellent woodwork at relatively inexpensive prices.
Several outlet stores operated by volunteer agencies market
handicrafts made by Afghan refugees.
Notes For Travelers
Customs, Duties, and Passage
Customs and Duties Last Updated: 8/31/2004 6:58 AM
Diplomatic and consular officers are entitled to duty-free import
privileges of household effects and an automobile. Other official
personnel not having diplomatic or consular titles are entitled to
duty-free import of household effects and personally owned vehicle
no later than 6 months after an employee’s arrival in the country.
The Government of Pakistan’s regulations prohibit clearance of
household effects, unaccompanied baggage, or personally owned
vehicle before arrival of the employee in the country. Employees
must be sure their shipments do not arrive in-country before they
do. See also Islamabad-Transportation
Customs, Duties, and Passage
Passage Last Updated: 8/31/2004 6:59 AM
All Americans traveling to Pakistan are required to have a visa
before arrival. Apply at the nearest Pakistani Embassy or Consulate
as far in advance of your scheduled arrival as possible.
Bring with you an up-to-date inoculation record. Yellow fever
inoculations are required before entry into Pakistan, if you have
come from Africa or South America. Typhoid, hepatitis A, hepatitis
B, meningitis, and pre-rabies inoculations are also advised.
Remember to start your malaria prophylaxis 2 weeks before arrival.
Visiting or resident Americans are encouraged to register with
the Consular Section of the Embassy in Islamabad or with the
Consulates in Lahore, Karachi, and Peshawar. Travelers are urged to
consult the U.S. Embassy or Consulate before travel in remote or
disturbed areas. Travel to tribal areas requires special permits
from the Government of Pakistan. Mountain climbers should pay
particular attention to the requirements for traveling in the East
Karakoram Range.
Customs, Duties, and Passage
Pets Last Updated: 8/31/2004 7:05 AM
No regulations restrict importation of household pets (dogs,
cats, birds); however, health and vaccination certificates may need
to be presented. Certificates should be issued no more than two
weeks prior to arrival in Pakistan. Rabies shots must have been
given within four weeks preceding arrival. The easiest way to bring
a pet into the country is to bring the pet along as accompanying air
baggage. Special rules apply to the importation of pet monkeys. Be
sure to check with all airlines for their specific requirements.
Rabies is endemic in Pakistan, heartworm is present, and ticks
are plentiful, even in the city. Vaccinate your pets as applicable
for rabies, distemper, leptospirosis, hepatitis, parvo, and feline
leukemia. Bring an ample supply of special medicines for your pet,
including heartworm medicine, deworming medicines, flea/tick and
mange/scabies preparations, pet vitamins, rawhide bones, and
grooming needs. Ship bird seed and gravel, as the commissary only
stocks dog and cat food and kitty litter.
There are a few veterinarians in Pakistan, but services and
facilities are below U.S. standards. Fatal anesthesia overdosing
during surgery is one risk to pets. There is one kennel of limited
quality in Islamabad. There are no kennels in Karachi or Lahore.
People with older animals or pets not in excellent health might want
to consider leaving them behind. Between the climate and veterinary
care, a tour in Pakistan can be hard on a family pet. Animals are
not allowed in hotels in Pakistan.
If you plan to acquire a pet at post, consider including a
shipping container in your HHE. Cat-sized kennels may be ordered
through the internet.
Currency, Banking, and Weights and Measures Last Updated:
8/31/2004 7:08 AM
The currency of Pakistan is the rupee (Rs), which is divided into
100 paisa. The rate of exchange is was 57 rupees to the dollar.
Paper money is used in notes from Rs. 5 to Rs. 1,000. Coins are in
short supply.
Travelers are restricted in the amount of rupees they can bring
into and out of the country. In Pakistan the rupee is the only
currency that can be used.
Pakistan uses the metric system but be prepared to figure in
miles and yards as well. Gasoline is sold by the liter (1.0567
quarts), cloth by the meter (39 inches), food by the kilogram (2.2
pounds), and distance is measured by the kilometer (0.625 miles).
Taxes, Exchange, and Sale of Property Last Updated: 8/31/2004
7:10 AM
Restrictions
All items imported duty-free must be for the exclusive use of the
employee or their family members; they may not be imported for the
purpose of sale or exchange. Free-entry property may be authorized
for sale to other privileged persons.
Alcoholic beverages may not be brought into Pakistan, nor may
they be given to or served to a Muslim or Pakistani by law.
Diplomatic personnel can import two personal cars, but can sell
only one in Pakistan. Many diplomatic and privileged personnel order
a new car, duty-free, from Japan. The car, which may take 4–5 months
to arrive, cannot be cleared through customs until the employee is
in the country. Transit insurance should be arranged to final
destination.
Nondiplomatic personnel are not allowed to purchase a duty-free
car in-country. They are allowed to import either new or used cars
free of taxes only during the first 6 months of their tour.
Nondiplomats’ cars can not be sold to a diplomat or to the
Government of Pakistan unless customs are paid.
U.S. Government personnel must pay sales taxes on gasoline
subject to rebate. Vehicles must be insured; this can be done by a
local insurance company. Liability insurance in Pakistan is
inexpensive. Bring proof of a 5-year claim-free record from your
U.S. insurance company for a reduced premium rate. It is the
responsibility of all Mission personnel to obtain a Pakistani
driver’s license before driving in this country. You must have a
valid U.S. driver’s license and two photos. Temporary or
international licenses are not accepted. The driving age is 18
years.
Personnel planning to sell an automobile when leaving should be
aware that regulations differ for diplomatic, privileged, and
non-privileged personnel. In general, the seller is responsible for
payment of taxes, if due. The seller must not deliver an automobile
until a “no objection certificate” has been issued by the Ministry
of Financial Affairs. Forms for the application to sell a personally
owned vehicle are available at the GSO and must be approved by the
administrative counselor, Islamabad (see policy on “Importation and
Sale of Vehicles/Personal Property”) before the employee’s departing
air ticket is issued.
Personnel planning to sell luxury items (stereo and radio
equipment, tape recorders, video cassette recorders, cameras,
projection equipment, furniture, and mechanical equipment) must
obtain approval of the Government of Pakistan. Facilities
U.S. Government personnel usually have their salaries and
allowances directly deposited in their bank in the U.S. A checking
account in a U.S. bank is essential to pay commissary and American
Club bills in Pakistan. It is also necessary in order to pay bills
due in the U.S., to pay for items ordered through the mail, and to
purchase travelers checks available at the commissary or Bank of
America, which provides accommodation exchange services at
Islamabad, Karachi, and Lahore. Personal checks of a reasonable
amount will be exchanged for rupees at the Embassy and Missions by
the Bank of America cashier at those locations, and by the consulate
cashier in Peshawar, during specified hours.
An account with a Pakistani bank is easy to open although not
considered necessary.
Recommended Reading Last Updated: 8/31/2004 7:10 AM
These titles are provided as a general indication of the material
available on this country. The Department of State does not endorse
unofficial publications.
Blood, Peter R., ed. Pakistan: A Country Study. 6th ed. Federal
Research Division, Library of Congress: Washington, 1995.
Burke, S. M. and Lawrence Ziring. Pakistan’s Foreign Policy: An
Historical Analysis. Oxford University Press: Karachi, 1990.
Burki, Shahid Javed and Robert LaPorte, Jr., eds. Pakistan’s
Development Priorities: Choices for the Future. Oxford University
Press: Karachi, 1984.
Collins, Larry and Dominique LaPierre. Freedom at Midnight. Simon
& Schuster: New York, 1975.
Cohen, Stephen P. The Pakistan Army. 2nd ed. Oxford University
Press: Karachi, 1992.
Durrani, Tehmina. My Feudal Lord. Vanguard Press: Lahore, 1991.
Hasan, Aitzaz. The Indus Saga and the Making of Pakistan. Oxford
University Press: Karachi, 1996.
Jalal, Ayesha. Democracy and Authoritarianism in South Asia: A
Comparative and Historical Perspective. Cambridge University Press:
Cambridge, 1995.
Kipling, Rudyard. Plain Tales From the Hills. Macmillan: New
York, 1888.
Lamb, Alastair. Kashmir: A Disputed Legacy. Roxford Books:
Hertfordshire [England], 1991.
Mittmann, Karin and Zafar Ihsan. Culture Shock! Pakistan. Graphic
Arts Center: Portland, 1991.
Mumtaz, Khawar and Farida Shaheed. Women of Pakistan. Vanguard
Press: Lahore, 1987.
Mustafa, Sayyid Ghulam. General Zia, His Winged Death and the
Aftermath. Shah Abdul Latif Cultural Society: Karachi, 1994.
Naipaul, V.S. Among the Believers. Penguin Books: New York, 1981.
Newberg, Paula R. Judging the State: Courts and Constitutional
Politics in Pakistan. Cambridge University Press: Cambridge, 1995.
Rafat, Taufiq. Arrival of the Monsoon: Collected Poems. Vanguard
Books: Lahore, 1985.
Russell, Ralph. Hidden in the Lute: An Anthology of Two Centuries
of Urdu Literature. Carcanet: Manchester, 1995.
Santiago, Jose Roleo. Pakistan—A Travel Survival Kit. Lonely
Planet Publications, 1987.
Shaw, Isobel. Pakistan Handbook. The Guidebook Company Limited,
1989.
Shafqat, Sayeed. Contemporary Issues in Pakistan Studies. Gautam
Publishers: Lahore, 1995.
Sidhwa, Bapsi. The Crow Eaters: A Novel. 2nd ed. Milkweed
Editions: Minneapolis, 1992.
Sidhwa, Bapsi. The Pakistani Bride. Penguin Books, 1990.
Sisson, Richard. War and Secession: Pakistan, India, and the
Creation of Bangladesh. University of California Press: Berkeley,
1990.
Syed, Muhammed Aslam, ed. Islam and Democracy in Pakistan.
National Institute of Historical and Cultural Research: Islamabad,
1995.
Wolpert, Stanley. Jinnah of Pakistan. Oxford University Press:
New York, 1985.
Local Holidays Last Updated: 8/31/2004 7:22 AM
*Eid-ul-Azaha Feb. 2 & 3 *9th an d10th of Muharram Mar. 2 & 3
Pakistan Day March 23 *Eid-i-Milad-un-Nabi May 5 Independence Day
Aug. 14 *Eid-ul-Fitr Nov. 15-17 Birthday of Quaid-i-Azam Dec. 24
Year: 2004
*Tentative dates, they are subject to the appearance of the moon.
These lunar calendar holidays occur about 11 days earlier each
succeeding year. Avoid arriving in Pakistan on a holiday. Take
special care to avoid arriving on Eid-ul-Azha, Eid-ul-Fitr, and the
9th and 10th of Muharram.
All posts generally observe Pakistani holidays except when they
fall on a Saturday or Sunday, already non-working days. |