Heavy snow cripples trade activity in Balkh

MAZAR-I-SHARIF (Pajhwok): Two consecutive days of heavy snowfall have brought to a standstill trade activity at the Hairatan dry port and in Mazar-i-Sharif, the capital of northern Balkh province, officials said on Monday.

Balkh Chamber of Commerce and Industry chief Arash Yunusi told Pajhwok Afghan News all roads to the port had been blocked by heavy snowfall, forcing a halt to import and export activities.

He said all public and private trade centers and markets remained closed in Mazar-i-Sharif after goods supplies could not reach from the port.

He said about 60 tonnes of different materials would arrive from the port to Mazar-i-Sharif, but the shipping had been stopped due to heavy snowfall.

Hairatan Port Director Najibullah confirmed roads leading to the port had been closed and all business activities stopped at the border crossing. He said electricity had also been suspended to the port.

The governor’s spokesman, Munir Farhad, said hectic efforts were underway to restore power supply to the port.

He said vehicular movement faced problems because all roads leading to the area had been blocked by heavy snow.

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