Implementation of Gardez master plan resumes

GARDEZ (Pajhwok): Paktia municipality officials say they have started implementing the Gardez master plan that will be executed without further delay.

Officials say with the implementation of this master plan, the provincial capital will be expanded and more facilities created for residents and shopkeepers.

Gardez Mayor Mohammad Sharif Elham told Pajhwok Afghan News: “The implementation of the master plan started five years ago. However, the process was delayed due to corruption and other problems.”

He said the master plan included the construction of roads, demolition of about 100 houses near the city and connecting markets through streets in the city.

The mayor added Gardez would be expanded and more revenue collected by the municipality from the newly-constructed market and commercial sites.

Elham announced owners of houses and other public places were being given alternative sites in accordance with the acquisition law.

He said demolition of houses and other works would be completed this year and construction of roads would come to an end in 2022.

Gardez residents are happy with the implementation of the master plan and demand facilities for citizens.

Habibullah, a shopkeeper and resident of the city, said: “We are happy with the implementation of the master plan, which will expand the city and ease road congestion.”

He urged the municipality to work for the cleanliness of the city and ensure delivery of efficient public services.

sa/mud