GILGIT: The qualifying round of the Sarfa Ranga cold desert jeep rally will be held on Saturday (today) in Shigar district of Gilgit-Baltistan.

The three day event started on Friday and the final round with a concluding ceremony would be held on Sunday.

Officials of GB and federal governments are expected to attend the last round of the rally.

According to the district administration, a tent village has been established at the venue.

A polo match played at the Imacha polo ground in Shigar valley marked the start of Sarfa Ranga rally.

A large number of international, national and local fans of polo participated in the inaugural function of the event.

Stalls of local foods, dry fruits and handicraft have been established at the venue.

One hundred and fifty drivers from across Pakistan with off-road vehicles are taking part in the competition.

Sarfa Ranga is the world’s highest cold desert, situated at a height of 7,500 feet.

Besides the jeep rally, a bike rally, traditional Balti cultural show, a polo match, a raft competition, cultural May Fang (lighting) function are being organised to entertain the participants.

Local Balti dishes would also be prepared during the event being organised by the GB government in collaboration with the private sector.

Published in Dawn, September 1st, 2018