Badakhshan: 10-km road being rebuilt by Germany

KABUL (Pajhwok): Construction work on a 10 kilometres road, funded by Afghan-German Cooperation, has begun in northeastern Badakhshan province.

Costing 206 million afghanis, the road project would benefit about 600,000 residents of the remote province, the German Cooperation said in a statement.

A contract was signed for the reconstruction of the road connecting Dashti Qurogh with Lia Aba in Faizabad, the provincial capital.

Provincial authorities and Public Works Department officials were also present at the launching ceremony.

Deputy Governor Akhtar Mohammad Khairkhwah said: “I cordially welcome all participants and guests to this wonderful event.

“I congratulate the people on witnessing the realisation f this road project. We are thankful to the German government and people for their longstanding cooperation.”

The existing gravel road between Dashti Qurogh and Lai Aba villages is in poor condition and has many potholes. It lacks a drainage system even though it runs close to Kokcha River.

During summer, the road is extremely dusty, hindering traffic and causing air pollution. Some parts of the road need further fortification as they pass through streams or are prone to rockslides that cause road damages.

Reconstruction works involve widening the existing gravel road to a nine meters wide roadway, including six meters wide asphalt carriageway and 1.5 meters gravel shoulders on each side.

Side ditches along the roadside will drain rainwater and melted snow from the road. Retaining walls will be built to prevent road damages.

Provincial Development Council (PDC) prioritised the rehabilitation of the 74 kilometres long road connecting Faizabad with Yawan district.

The road will provide faster access to markets, schools and healthcare facilities, creating jobs, improving living conditions, and facilitating social interaction among citizens.

It will also enable citizens and tourists to reach Sar-e-Jangal faster and more comfortably, a traditional park in the area to enjoy weekends and public holidays.

Pr/sa/mud