Development projects launched Jawzjan

SHIBERGHAN (PAN): Several development projects were launched as part of the second round of the National Solidarity Programme in and around Shiberghan, the capital of northern Jawzjan province, an official said on Wednesday.

Rural Rehabilitation and Development Director Eng. Mahyar Siddiqui launched five schemes in Shahrukh Mirza, Yaka Chenar, Aat Chapar, Qazankol and Kohlak towns. The projects are to be completed in three months.

A 413-metre retaining wall would be built, an 18-kilometre road stretch paved and 42 bridges constructed in the villages on the outskirts of the provincial capital, the director said.

The development plans, benefitting 2,000 families, will account for 10 million afghanis ($217,344) to be provided by the Ministry of Rural Rehabilitation and Development, with a 10 percent of the cost paid by area residents.

Mohammad Naeem, 45, a resident of Shahrukh Mirza, said: “A seven kilometres road will be graveled in our area and our problem will be solved.” He added it was the first time a welfare project had been launched in the village.

Mohammad Sarwar, belonging to the Qazankol village, said: “We often suffer losses due to rising water levels in the river and that’s why residents have asked for the construction of the retaining wall.”

am/mud