Quetta

Quetta, known locally as Shalkot, a town near the north frontier of Beluchistan, strategically important as commanding the Bolan Pass and the Pishin Valley. Since 1887 it has been connected with the Indian railway system, and since 1877 Quetta and its district have been administered by British officers; it is now the headquarters of the British agent in Beluchistan, and of a considerable military force, and is strongly fortified. The valley is fertile, well watered, and populous. Coal and petroleum were discovered in 1890.