"كتيّب بلاد الرافدين. المجلد II. ١٩١٧" [‎٢‎٥‎٤] (٥٤٢/٢٦٣)

254
LAND EOUTES
EOUTE 10 a
ZORBATIYEH—DIZFUL (162i m.)
Authority :—Routes in Persia, vol. iii, nos. 93 and 91, stages 8-13.
A desert route. The road is passable for all arms throughout, but
is reported to be practicable only in winter and spring owing to the lack
of supplies at other seasons. In October the tribes of the Pusht-i-Kuh
descend to the plains on the route, bringing with them large flocks
and herds. The Indian corn is then ripe and the desert always
provides a certain quantity of grass. In February the approach of
spring provides the most luxuriant herbage, which dries in the first
heat of March and April, during which months the tribes migrate to
the hill country, leaving the plain almost deserted throughout the
summer. ' In no case should infantry endeavour to follow this
section of the route until arrangements for supplies be made with the
tribes and the Vali of Pusht-i-Kuh ; or if unaccompanied by cavalry,
whose services would be absolutely necessary for foraging.' Water
is plentiful as far as Qal'ateh, though apparently slightly brackish.
From Qal'ateh to Dizful it is procurable throughout except in the
tract between the Jik and the Karkeh rivers; it is, however, often
impregnated with salt and sulphur. Fuel is probably not available
as far as Qal'ateh, and beyond Qal'ateh it is reported to be procurable
only from the mountains, generally some miles distant. Forage is
abundant in winter and spring. The passage of the Karkeh River
from November to May would require special arrangements if the
fords were impracticable. Skilled local guides are absolutely necessary
for the passage of the river at any season.
Miles from
Zortoati-
yeli
o
15
35
55
79
Zorbatiyeh.
Masanau or Gavi Eiver.
Zafareiueh. Between Zafareineh and Bisheh Daraz is a
permanent settlement of Lurs at or near Ibrahim Katal
(or Khata) to S. of the road,
Bisheh Daraz (see Boute 10 b, m. 651;').
Qal' ateh. Water from springs ; much grass ; crops of
Indian corn, barley, and wheat in spring. Kurd camps,
as on E. of route, from October to April, with large flocks
and herds.