Faisalabad facts for kids

Quick facts for kids Faisalabad فیصل آباد
Metropolis
From top, left to right: Clock Tower, Sikh Gurdwara, Jhal Flyover Circuit House Gardens, Faisalabad Canal, Faisalabad Pindi-Bhattian Interchange
Seal
Nickname(s):  The Manchester of Pakistan
Faisalabad Location in Punjab, Pakistan Show map of Punjab, Pakistan Faisalabad Location in Pakistan Show map of Pakistan
Country	Pakistan
Province	Punjab
Division	Faisalabad
District	Faisalabad
Settled	1892
Founded by	James Broadwood Lyall
Named for	Faisal of Saudi Arabia
Area
• City	1,330 km2 (512 sq mi)
• Land	840 km2 (325 sq mi)
• Water	430 km2 (165 sq mi)  33%
• Metro	5,860 km2 (2,261 sq mi)
Area rank	3rd
Elevation	186 m (610 ft)
Population  (2024)
• City	3,800,193
• Rank	3rd, Pakistan
• Density	2,865.7/km2 (7,422/sq mi)
Demonym(s)	Faisalabadi
Time zone	UTC+05:00 (PKT)
Postal code	38000
Area code(s)	041
Former Name	Lyallpur
Official Languages	Urdu, English
Native language	Punjabi
Languages (1981)	98.2% Punjabi 1.8% Others
GDP	$80 billion (2024)

Faisalabad is a large and important city in Punjab, Pakistan. It used to be called Lyallpur. It is the third biggest city in Pakistan with about 3.8 million people in 2024.

Faisalabad is known for its many factories and businesses. It's often called the Manchester of Pakistan because it has a huge textile industry, just like Manchester in England. The city is located between two rivers, the Ravi and Chenab. It's also the second-largest city in the world where people speak Punjabi.

Faisalabad was one of the first cities in British India that was carefully planned. It has grown a lot since then. The city is a major hub for industry and trade. Its central location helps connect it with roads, railways, and air travel.

In 2013, Faisalabad's economy was worth about $43 billion. It was expected to grow to $87 billion by 2025. The city's farming and factory work are very important to its economy.

Why is Faisalabad Called That?

Faisalabad was first named Lyallpur in 1890. It was named after James Broadwood Lyall, who was a British governor in Punjab.

In September 1977, the government of Pakistan changed the city's name to "Faisalabad." This was to honor King Faisal of Saudi Arabia. He had a strong friendship with Pakistan and its people. The name "Faisalabad" means "City of Faisal."

A Look Back: Faisalabad's History

The first university in Lyallpur was built by the British Indian Empire in 1906.

Mohammed Ali Jinnah gave an important speech in Lyallpur around 1943.

An early industrial exhibition at the University of Agriculture in 1949.

Lady Mountbatten with people moving during the partition of British India.

This Sikh Gurdwara was built in 1911 during British rule.

How the City Started

Faisalabad began in the 1880s when the British government started a big project. They built canals to bring water to dry lands in Punjab for farming. This area was called the Chenab colony, and Faisalabad became its main center.

An officer named Popham Young designed the city's center to look like the Union Jack, the flag of the United Kingdom. Eight roads spread out from a large clock tower in the middle. These roads led to eight different markets, each selling special goods.

In 1892, the city got a railway connection. This helped farmers send their crops to other places. By 1911, Faisalabad had grown to a population of almost 20,000 people. In the 1930s, more factories opened, especially for textiles and food processing.

After Independence

In August 1947, British India was divided into two new countries: Pakistan and India. Many people moved between the two countries. Faisalabad, which became part of Pakistan, saw many Muslim families move in from India.

In 1977, the city's name changed from Lyallpur to Faisalabad. This was to honor King Faisal of Saudi Arabia. During the 1980s, Faisalabad received more money from other countries, especially for its textile industry. This helped build new roads and other important structures in the city. In 1985, Faisalabad became a larger administrative area, including other nearby districts.

Faisalabad's Location and Weather

Where is Faisalabad?

Faisalabad is located in the flat plains of northeast Punjab. It is about 186 meters (610 feet) above sea level. The city itself covers about 1,326 square kilometers (512 square miles). The Chenab River is about 30 kilometers (19 miles) away, and the Ravi River is about 40 kilometers (25 miles) to the southeast. Canals from the Chenab River provide water for most of the farms.

Cities Near Faisalabad

	Sargodha	Chiniot	Sheikhupura
	Jhang		Nankana Sahib
		Faisalabad
	Gojra	Samundri	Tandlianwala and Okara

What is the Weather Like?

Faisalabad has a climate that is between dry and humid. This means it can be quite hot and sometimes rainy. The Pakistan Meteorological Department keeps track of the weather and gives forecasts to farmers.

The city gets about 718 millimeters (28 inches) of rain each year. Most of this rain falls during the monsoon season, from July to September. Sometimes, heavy rains can cause flooding. October and November are usually the driest months. In winter, it can be cloudy and foggy. The highest temperature ever recorded was 48.0 °C (118.4 °F) in June 1947 and May 2010. The lowest was -4.0 °C (24.8 °F) in January 1978.

Faisalabad's Culture

The Chenab Club, built in 1904, is the oldest social club in the city.

The Nusrat Fateh Ali Khan Auditorium, home of the Faisalabad Arts Council.

Chicken Fajita Pizza.

Malai Seekh Kebabs.

Faisalabad is a big city known for its trade and its old buildings from the British colonial period. The Faisalabad Arts Council was set up in 1982 to promote arts and culture. Its main auditorium is named after the famous Pakistani singer Nusrat Fateh Ali Khan.

Festivals and Celebrations

People in Faisalabad celebrate many cultural and religious festivals. On 14 August, Pakistan's Independence Day, the city is decorated, and flags are raised.

In spring, there's a "Rang-e-Bahar" flower show at Jinnah Gardens. The University of Agriculture also has a similar event called "Kissan Mela." The "Canal Mela" is a five-day festival where the city's main canal is decorated with lights and floats.

Religious holidays like Eid al-Fitr and Eid al-Adha are celebrated by Muslims. Christians in the city celebrate Easter and Christmas.

What People Wear

Traditional clothes in Faisalabad include the Kurta and Sherwani for men. Women wear white shalwar kameez with a dupatta (scarf). Some women also wear burqas. People also mix Pakistani and Western styles, like wearing a kurta with jeans.

The Faisalabad Institute of Textile and Fashion Design teaches fashion. Some schools and universities have dress codes to promote good values. For example, some places might not allow shorts or sleeveless shirts for men, or jeans and heavy makeup for women.

Delicious Food

Faisalabad's food is a mix of Punjabi cuisine, Mughlai cuisine, and Anglo-Indian cuisine. Common meals include rice or roti (flatbread) with a vegetable or meat curry. People also enjoy South Asian sweets like gulab jamun.

Street food is very popular. You can find Samosas (fried pastries with filling), dahi bhale (fried snacks in yogurt), and gol gappay (fried balls filled with vegetables and tamarind sauce). Biryani and chicken pilao rice are also special dishes.

For breakfast, many people have halwa poori (fried flatbread with chickpea curry and sweet halwa) with lassi (a yogurt drink). In winter, roghni naan with paya (a stew) is popular.

During summer, people drink sugarcane juice, iced lemon water, and lassi. In winter, milky teas like dhood patti and Kashmiri chai are common.

Learning and Education

In 2015, Pakistan's literacy rate (how many people can read and write) was ranked low globally. However, Faisalabad has been working to improve its literacy. By 2008, it ranked ninth among Punjab's districts for literacy.

In 2014, the city held its first literary festival to encourage writing and arts. There are also groups for writers and journalists to help new writers.

People of Faisalabad

Most people in Faisalabad speak Punjabi (96%). Urdu and Pashto are also spoken by smaller groups. Faisalabad is the second-largest Punjabi-speaking city in the world.

The city was planned for 20,000 people, but its population grew very quickly. Between 1941 and 1961, the population increased by over 500%. This was partly because many Muslim refugees moved to Faisalabad after Pakistan was created. By 2017, the city's population was over 3.2 million.

Religions and Groups

A mosque in the old city. Most people in Faisalabad are Muslim.

Most people in Faisalabad are Muslim (about 97%). Families often live together in large joint families, though smaller nuclear families are becoming more common. Marriages are usually arranged by parents.

There are also smaller groups of Christians and Hindus. Many Christians in Punjab are descendants of people who converted from Hinduism. While there have been challenges, there are efforts to protect women's rights and promote fairness.

Religious groups in Faisalabad City (1901−2023)

Religious group	1901		1911		1921		1931		1941		2017		2023
	Pop.	%	Pop.	%	Pop.	%	Pop.	%	Pop.	%	Pop.	%	Pop.	%
Hinduism	4,434	48.35%	8,024	40.98%	12,922	45.93%	20,147	46.94%	32,896	47.04%	131	0%	677	0.02%
Islam	4,232	46.15%	9,166	46.82%	11,116	39.51%	15,534	36.19%	23,003	32.89%	3,114,321	95.82%	3,627,087	95.98%
Sikhism	365	3.98%	1,607	8.21%	2,958	10.51%	5,181	12.07%	10,897	15.58%	N/A	N/A	147	0%
Christianity	132	1.44%	758	3.87%	1,100	3.91%	1,988	4.63%	3,027	4.33%	131,686	4.05%	148,824	3.94%
Jainism	7	0.08%	23	0.12%	38	0.14%	65	0.15%	34	0.05%	N/A	N/A	N/A	N/A
Zoroastrianism	1	0.01%	0	0%	2	0.01%	7	0.02%	N/A	N/A	N/A	N/A	2	0%
Ahmadiyya	N/A	N/A	N/A	N/A	N/A	N/A	N/A	N/A	N/A	N/A	3,822	0.12%	2,082	0.06%
Others	0	0%	0	0%	0	0%	0	0%	73	0.1%	71	0%	151	0%
Total population	9,171	100%	19,578	100%	28,136	100%	42,922	100%	69,930	100%	3,250,031	100%	3,778,970	100%

Faisalabad's Economy

The historical eight separate markets where local goods are sold.

This monument celebrates the city's textile industry.

Faisalabad's economy was estimated to be worth $63 billion in 2015. It is expected to grow to $107 billion by 2025. The city contributes over 35% to Pakistan's yearly economic output and money from exports.

The textile and clothing industry is the most important in Faisalabad. It brings in about 60-80% of Pakistan's export money. Groups like the Faisalabad Chamber of Commerce and Industry (FCCI) help manage these businesses.

Faisalabad is a major industrial center. It has factories for textiles, chemicals, food processing, and farm equipment. It's also a growing place for real estate.

The Famous Clock Tower Markets

The Faisalabad clock tower and its eight markets are a big trading area. These eight markets were designed to look like the Union Jack flag. Each market is known for selling specific things:

• Katchery Bazar: Known for mobile phones.
• Rail Bazar: Famous for gold and cloth.
• Kharkhana Bazaar: Sells spices and herbs.
• Montgomery Bazaar: Known for yarn and raw cloth.
• Jhang Bazaar: Sells fish, meat, vegetables, and fruits.
• Bhawana Bazaar: Has electrical goods.
• Aminpur Bazaar: Known for old books and home decor.
• Chiniot Bazaar: Has medicine stores.

Industrial Areas

The Faisalabad Industrial Estate Development & Management Company (FIEDMC) helps grow factories in Faisalabad. They help businesses find land and services.

• Value Addition City (VAC): Also called Garment City, it has many clothing factories.
• M-3 Industrial City (M-3-IC) and Allama Iqbal City (AllC): These large areas have big factories for textiles, medicines, and car parts.
• Small Industrial Estate (SME): This area has smaller and medium-sized factories.

Faisalabad has received money from the government to improve its roads and other structures. The city is also looking into using renewable energy like solar power. A German company plans to build a solar panel factory here.

Recent Challenges

In 2020, Pakistan had a lockdown because of the COVID-19 pandemic. This greatly affected Faisalabad's industries, as many factories had to close.

In 2022, record floods in Pakistan caused food shortages and made it hard to get raw materials like cotton. This hurt Faisalabad's textile industry, increasing costs and reducing cotton availability.

Electricity in Faisalabad

The Faisalabad Electric Supply Company (FESCO) provides electricity to Faisalabad and nearby areas. This company was started in 1998. It gets electricity from water power and delivers it to over 4 million customers. You can check your FESCO bill online.

Education in Faisalabad

Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, University of Agriculture.

Faisalabad has many schools and universities. It is a regional center for learning and research. It specializes in subjects like agriculture, medical sciences, chemistry, and textiles.

There are public schools and universities that offer help with costs for families. Many private schools and colleges also offer a wide range of courses.

How Education is Managed

The education system in Faisalabad is managed by the District Education Authority. This group is in charge of money, management, and resources for public schools. It works under the Ministry of Federal Education and Professional Training in Pakistan.

Top Schools and Universities

Here are some well-known institutions in Faisalabad:

• Faisalabad Medical University
• University of Agriculture
• Government College University Faisalabad
• National Textile University
• University of Faisalabad
• Beaconhouse School System
• The City School

Public Services

Keeping the City Safe

The Punjab Police is in charge of law enforcement in Faisalabad. The city police officer (CPO) leads the police in the city.

The City Traffic Police Faisalabad handles traffic safety. They manage traffic signals, road signs, and issue driving licenses.

The District and Sessions Court in Faisalabad handles legal cases.

Taxes and Fees

The Regional Tax Office collects federal taxes in Faisalabad. They also help people understand their tax duties.

The Excise, Taxation and Narcotics Control Department collects property taxes and handles vehicle registration. They also work to control certain substances.

Water and Cleanliness

The Water and Sanitation Agency (WASA) provides water and sewerage services to Faisalabad. They get most of their water from wells near the Chenab River. They work to improve water and sanitation in the city.

Media and Entertainment

TV and Radio

The Pakistan Electronic Media Regulatory Authority (PEMRA) oversees TV and radio in Pakistan. Pakistan Television Corporation is the government's TV network. Private TV channels started in 2002.

"Radio Pakistan" started broadcasting in Faisalabad in 1982. It has three FM stations: FM101, FM93, and FM93.4.

Phones and Internet

The Pakistan Telecommunication Authority manages phone and internet services. Pakistan Telecommunication Company Limited is a main provider of phone and internet. Many other companies also offer mobile and internet services.

Movies and Plays

In 2008, a ban on Bollywood films was lifted, allowing Indian movies in cinemas. This led to new cinemas opening in Faisalabad.

Universities also encourage students to create plays and workshops. These help share important messages about peace and understanding.

Fun Things to Do

A view of Chenab Club.

D Ground Central Park has small models of Pakistan's symbols.

Iqbal Stadium is an international cricket ground.

Parks and Gardens

The Parks and Horticulture Authority (PHA) manages all public parks in Faisalabad.

• Jinnah Gardens: This is the oldest and most important park, also known as "Company Bagh."
• Dhobi Ghat Park: A historic park on Kotwali Road, known for hosting many important public gatherings.
• Gatwala Park: Located outside the city, it has a zoo and a lake. The Gatwala Wildlife Park is a natural reserve nearby.
• Pahari Grounds: In Peoples Colony #2, it has a retired Pakistan Air Force jet on display.
• D-Ground Park: In the D-Ground shopping area, it features models of Pakistani monuments.

Sports

Cricket is very popular in Faisalabad. International cricket matches are held at Iqbal Stadium, named after the poet Allama Muhammad Iqbal. It's home to the local team, the Faisalabad Wolves.

The Faisalabad Hockey Stadium was built in 2002 and can hold 25,000 people. It's the third-largest field hockey stadium in Pakistan.

The Government College University also has a sports department that promotes various sports for students.

Libraries and Museums

Faisalabad has two public libraries and a museum:

• Allama Iqbal Library: Located on University Road, it's in a colonial building from 1911.
• Lyallpur Museum: Next to the Allama Iqbal Library, this museum shows the region's history with art and old items.
• Municipal Library: Located in Iqbal Park, it has many books and a photo gallery.
• The Forest Library: A special research library at the Wildlife Research Center.

Social Clubs

The Chenab Club, started in 1910, is the oldest social club in Faisalabad. It was founded by British soldiers. Today, it's a well-known club offering sports, dining, and cultural activities.

Getting Around Faisalabad

Airport

Airside view of Faisalabad Airport.

The front entrance to the 19th-century railway station.

Roads in Faisalabad.

Faisalabad International Airport is about 15 kilometers (9 miles) from the city center. It was greatly improved between 2014 and 2017. It handles flights for people and cargo, and also serves as a military base. Airlines like Pakistan International Airlines, FlyDubai, and Qatar Airways operate here.

Trains

The Faisalabad railway station is the main train station. Train services are run by Pakistan Railways. There are also cargo train services that transport goods from Faisalabad to other parts of the country.

Roads

Faisalabad has a very good road system. It is connected to other cities by motorways, dual-carriageways, and highways. This makes it easy to travel in and out of the city.

Sister Cities

Faisalabad is connected with other cities around the world. These are called its sister cities:

• Qingdao, China
• Wuhan, China
• Tabriz, Iran
• Kanpur, India
• Kobe, Japan
• Cordoba, Spain
• Sharjah, United Arab Emirates
• Manchester, United Kingdom
• Los Angeles, United States of America

Images for kids

• 

  A view of Faisalabad Canal.

• 

  Jhal Flyover in Faisalabad.

• 

  A motorway near Faisalabad.

See also

In Spanish: Faisalabad para niños