An Anthropological and Archaeological Perspective of the 2022 Floods in Khabar Jo Goth, Mehrabpur Taluka of Sindh
- The fall of the Salvadora persica tree in Khabar Jo Goth highlights the vulnerability of cultural and natural heritage to climate-induced disasters
Suhail Shaikh
The 2022 floods in Sindh province of Pakistan, were among the most devastating in recent history, impacting millions and submerging heritage sites. Khabar Jo Goth in Mehrabpur Taluka of Naushehro Feroze district, known for its association with ancient Indus settlements, bore the brunt of this disaster. Central to this village’s identity was a towering Salvadora persic tree, known locally as the “toothbrush tree,” revered for its cultural and utilitarian value.
The Salvadora persica tree, native to arid regions, has long been valued for its medicinal and ecological benefits. In the context of the Indus Valley civilization, trees like this one were often planted near settlements for their utility in sustaining communities. Evidence from sites such as Mohenjo-Daro and Chanhudaro indicates the deliberate use of such flora in settlement planning, not only for shade and food but also for water retention and soil stabilization.
Located near Mehrabpur, Khabar Jo Goth is believed to overlay an ancient settlement tied to the mature Indus period. Preliminary surveys have revealed pottery shards, tools, and water management systems, suggesting a complex society adept at surviving in semi-arid conditions. The Salvadora persica tree likely marked a continuation of this interaction with the environment, symbolizing resilience and resourcefulness.
The toothbrush tree served as a natural marker for the village and its historical significance. In many archaeological contexts, such trees help researchers identify old pathways, water sources, and settlement boundaries
The unprecedented monsoon rains of 2022 led to extensive flooding across Sindh, exacerbated by poor drainage infrastructure and climate change. In Khabar Jo Goth, the floodwaters not only displaced residents but also destabilized the soil, leading to the collapse of the Salvadora persica.
The tree’s fall was not just an ecological loss but a blow to the community’s cultural identity. Oral traditions linked the tree to historical figures and events, making it a living testament to the village’s past. Its roots, extending deep into the soil, symbolized a connection to the region’s ancient heritage.
The toothbrush tree served as a natural marker for the village and its historical significance. In many archaeological contexts, such trees help researchers identify old pathways, water sources, and settlement boundaries. Its loss complicates efforts to map the historical landscape of Khabar Jo Goth.
The inundation of the area raises concerns about the preservation of buried artifacts. Floodwaters can erode stratigraphy, displace artifacts, and introduce contaminants, complicating future excavation efforts. The loss of the tree further exacerbates this vulnerability, as its roots previously contributed to soil stabilization.
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The 2022 floods underscore the growing threat of climate change to archaeological sites. Khabar Jo Goth, like many other heritage-rich areas, faces increased risks from extreme weather events, necessitating urgent conservation measures.
The Salvadora persica tree has been used for centuries as a natural toothbrush (miswak) and for medicinal purposes. This cultural practice links modern inhabitants of Khabar Jo Goth to ancient traditions, underscoring the continuity of human-environment interaction in the region.
Oral traditions surrounding the tree reveal its role in the collective memory of the village. Stories recount its planting by ancestors as a safeguard against droughts, while others attribute spiritual significance to its longevity. Such narratives offer insights into the intangible heritage associated with the site.
The Salvadora persica tree has been used for centuries as a natural toothbrush (miswak) and for medicinal purposes
The fall of the Salvadora persica tree in Khabar Jo Goth highlights the vulnerability of cultural and natural heritage to climate-induced disasters. Its loss represents not only an ecological tragedy but also a disruption to the community’s connection to its past.
Further I would suggest mitigating such losses in the future, it is essential to Firstly Document and preserve oral histories and cultural practices linked to heritage trees and sites secondly implement climate-resilient conservation strategies for archaeological landscapes, including a forestation with native species.
As the world grapples with the impacts of climate change, the case of Khabar Jo Goth serves as a poignant reminder of the interconnectedness of natural and cultural heritage and the urgent need for their integrated protection.
Read: Massive rains cause major damage to Mohen Jo Daro
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Hailing from Mehrabpur, the author is a student.
Photo Courtesy: Author
