The princely state of Bahawalpur was founded by Nawab Mohammed Bahawal Khan Abassi 1 in 1748. It covered an area of 45,911 square km and was divided into 3 districts.
Bahawalpur had a flourishing economy and a strong army. When Pakistan came into being on 14th of August, 1947, the state acceded to Pakistan. In 1955, it gave up its sovereignty and merged with West Pakistan.
Present day Pakistan occupies an area of 24,830 sq. km. Agriculture is the mostly practiced and sugar cane, wheat, sunflower oilseeds are the main products. Bahawalpur City is the hub of trade and economy in the district.
Bahawalpur City has many important buildings some of which are as follows:
1. Central Library Bahawalpur
The library comprises of 3 blocks each having a vast collection of books on various topics. The foundation stone of the library was laid by Sir Rufus Daniel in 1924 the then viceroy of India.
2. Sadiq Public School
The Sadiq Public School was built by Nawab Sadiq Khan Mohammed Abassi the fifth in 1953. It has been imparting quality education for more than half a century.
3. Bahawalpur Museum
Although small the museum contains a rich collection of antique coins, medals and postage stamps of the former state as well as some manuscripts, wood carvings, camel skin paintings and stone carvings of the Islamic and Pre Islamic era. Rare copies of The Holy Quran are also displayed here.
4. Lal Sohanra National Park
It is located 30 km from Bahawalpur and is the abode of many endangered species of animals and birds.
5. Noor Mahal
It was built by Nawab Sadiq Khan Mohammed Abassi for his wife. After his death it was neglected by the heirs hence the army bought it and has restored it to its formal glory.
