'PERSIAN GULF AND GULF OF OMAN. RESOURCES AND COAST DEFENCES.' [‎59] (65/114)

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BUNDER ABBAS. 59
For distances see under Kishtn Town (p. 53), which is 13 miles Distances.
S. of Bunder Abbas. From Bunder Abbas the Musandatn Pro
montory is distictly visible on a clear day (the distance being
approximately 50 miles).
There is no harbour, but the roadstead is well sheltered, Anchorage,
except from the S.E. The anchorage for moderate draught ^ c •
vessels is off the mud flat which extends for about 2 miles from
the shore.
There is a wharf in front of the custom house. Landing is Landing
difficult at low water, as the beach dries off a long way. This place,
wharf is probably identical with the "dilapidated stone pier,"
mentioned in a Press report in 1902, which, it is stated, is left
high and dry at low water.
It is believed that there are no facilities for repairs. No repairing
j nvi • i facilities.
Coa/. — 1 here is no coal. Supplies
Water. —Water can be obtained.
Food. —Cattle, vegetables, and rice are procurable. There is
no cultivation immediately outside the town walls.
Roads. —There are five caravan routes to the interior, of Coramunica-
which the chief are— tions.
(1) Koute via Sirjam to Yezd and Kerman ;
(2) Route via Manujan to Narmashir, Neh, and
Khorassan.
Travelling is very insecure.
Steamers. —British India Steam Navigation Company's steamers
call here weekly, both on the up and down passage. Those of
the Persian Steam Navigation Company call fortnightly, and
there are other regular sailings.
Post Office. —There is a British post office.
Proposed Cahle.— See under Bassidu, p. 52, and Henjam
Island, p. 55.
The town is surrounded by an oblong wall with round towers Old defences,
at intervals, all more or less in ruins. The sea front of the town
is about half a mile long.*
The Governor resides in a large fortified building (with wall
and towers), Avhich is in good repair. This residence is under
stood to be on the sea front.
There is no information as to the Persian garrison.
Note. —The roadstead between Bunder Abbas and Kishm
Town was the rendezvous for the British fleet and transports at
the commencement of the Persian War of 1856—7.
It has frequently been stated that the Russians are desirous
of obtaining Bunder Abbas. Without Kishm and Hormuz the
position would appear to be useless for naval purposes, and the
development of the port itself would entail great expense. The
difficulty of climate might be obviated to some extent by the
establishment of a hill station on the fertile plateau N. of Mount
(jinao.
45 See rumour as to saluting gun mentioned on p. 4G under Bushire.