Migration from Pakistan - Info sheet

The migration narrative from Pakistan to the United Kingdom has deep roots, particularly from the region of Mirpur in Kashmir, which is renowned for its extensive history of emigration. Many Mirpuris found their way to British shores as sailors working in the engine rooms of ships sailing from Bombay and Karachi. This connection dates back to the late 19th and early 20th centuries, when the first groups began to settle in the UK. The post-war era saw an influx of Pakistani migrants seeking opportunities in the textile industries of Lancashire and Yorkshire, as well as in Manchester and Bradford. Additionally, many found work in car and engineering factories around the West Midlands and Birmingham, and on the burgeoning industrial estates of towns like Luton and Slough. A significant push factor for the migration from Mirpur was the construction of the Mangla Dam in 1966, which led to the submersion of a large part of the district and subsequently accelerated the emigration from the area.

Beyond Mirpur, the 1960s witnessed other Pakistani groups making their way to Britain, including Punjabis, who predominantly settled in Glasgow, Birmingham, and Southall in London. Urban migrants, often with professional qualifications, found employment within the National Health Service (NHS) and other sectors. These diverse waves of Pakistani migrants have contributed to the formation of large Asian communities in England, leaving a lasting impact on the cultural and social fabric of British society over the past century. The migration patterns and subsequent settlement of these communities have shaped the multicultural landscape of modern Britain, influencing everything from the economy to cultural expressions and community dynamics.