18-HAZARI: In line with the vision of Chief Minister Punjab Maryam Nawaz Sharif to promote tourism, preserve local culture, and highlight regional traditions, the District Administration Jhang is organizing the first-ever Jhang Desert Rally 2026 and a three-day Cultural Festival.
Deputy Commissioner Jhang Babar Sahib Din,while addressing a press conference in Lahore, announced that the three-day event will be held on October 16, 17, and 18, 2026, at the Thal Desert in Rehmat Abad, Tehsil 18-Hazari, Jhang. A jeep race will be conducted on a 95-kilometre-long track, featuring around 100 top drivers and riders from across Pakistan, including female jeep drivers.
Member of the Provincial Assembly Col. (R) Ghazanfar Abbas Qureshi, former MPA Faisal Hayat Jaboana, Ameer Abbas Sial, Mukarram Waheed Sheikh, and Sahibzada Sultan Muhammad Ali were also present at the press conference.
Deputy Commissioner Babar Sahib Din said that the primary objective of organizing the Jhang Desert Rally is to showcase the district’s unique identity, desert landscape, culture, traditions, and tourist attractions at national and international levels. He added that the event would promote tourism in the region and contribute to strengthening the local economy.
He stated that the 95-kilometre-long track in the vast Thal Desert would offer jeep racing enthusiasts and adventure seekers a unique and thrilling experience.
Alongside the rally, the three-day Cultural Festival will feature a variety of cultural and recreational activities, including tent pegging, kabaddi, volleyball, paragliding, and other colourful attractions.
The Deputy Commissioner further informed that food courts and accommodation camps would be established to facilitate visitors and tourists attending the festival, ensuring better facilities and an enjoyable experience for all participants.
He highlighted that District Jhang possesses a distinctive identity due to its vast desert landscape, the Thal region spanning approximately 6,000 square kilometres, the confluence of the Chenab and Jhelum rivers, and its rich historical, cultural, and civilizational heritage.
He said the Jhang Desert Rally would serve as an important initiative to showcase these natural and cultural assets and establish the district as a prominent tourist destination.
Deputy Commissioner Babar Sahib Din and all stakeholders expressed their commitment to continuing efforts to promote tourism, preserve local culture, and organize positive recreational activities across District Jhang.
Reported By: Asif Shahzad I 18-Hazari, Jhang
