'Field notes: Mesopotamia. General Staff, India. February, 1917.' [‎117r] (240/350)

Route No. 26.
NOTES ON ROUTES NORTH, EAST AND WEST OF
BAGHDAD.
(Summarised from Route Books).
General Description.
A line taken from Kirkuk through Khaniqin to Bagh-i
Shahi roughly demarcates the mountains from the low lying
country. In the former, movement is practically confined to
the mountain roads, and throughout the winter and spring all
operations are difficult owing to snow and to the mountain
torrents. The low-lying country is liable to be rendered
practically impassable by floods from April to June, and by
heavy rain in December and January.
1. Musal to Baghdad.
A. By road along the right bank of the Tigris (Tigris Valley
No. 107).
Distance .—230 miles.
The route report states that the road in 1903 was unfit for
wheeled traffic. Mr. A; W. Tod, however, says that it is now
better than the road via Kirkuk (vide B below), and is quite
practicable^ by motor cars. But there are practically no supplies
to be obtained, and water is scarce as the road does not follow
the river closely. In 1915, however, it was reported on the
authority of Shaikh Hajji ’Abbas of Kut that there were wells
•even shown to be a plentiful supply of water.
B. By road via Arbil—Kirkuk (107 miles)—Kifri (177 miles).
(Tigris Valley No. 104).
Distance .—294 miles, in 15 stages.
Crosses the Great Zab by a ferry. Fit for all arms at all
seasons, although, in winter, marching is sometimes impeded by
snow. The district through which road passes is very rich ja
supplies, and water is plentiful.
C. By raft to Samarrah, thence by rail.
Each raft carries about 100 men. Journey by raft takes
about six days.