I saw following photo in Raja Islam‘s collection and remained stuck at it. He took this photo in Khewra on October 6, 2008. Looking at it we can safely say that Salt Mines of Khewra are not the only tourist attraction there. But what is this thing? One can run their imagination wild. I would say it is a mixture of indigenous mechanical engineering and art. The front is devoid of any bumper, head lights or number plates. For number plates, we can argue the department of motor vehicle must be debating on how to classify this vehicle. What other details do you observe here?
Photo Credits: Raja Islam
I wish he was the first one to think of something like this…but if one goes to smaller cities and towns in China, one would see these vehicles everywhere…They are extremely polluting vehicles used to cart around people as well as construction materials and the gamut in and out of factories and construction sites.
I imagine we will be seeing more of China dumping its last generation technologies in Pakistan in the future.
@Shayan,
if this thing does make it to the MoMa, in my opinion it will be their first useful piece!
Also, why does he look half-embarrassed. I would be proud!
I saw similar strange contraptions plying on the roads in India on my last visit. They were heavily overloaded with people and produce in rural settings. But the ones I saw in India were not as pleasing to look at as what you see in this picture. I was told that they are called “Jugad” , which is probably a desi word for “improvisation”.
I also liked this contraption. Front wheel drive, a bit stiff to maneuver (like the tiller). Flywheel was added at a late stage. .
Last but not least the turquoise color handles controlling the 25 HP mechanical beast…. Well done.
Ingenuity still alive in our people…..hope still lives.