ZARANJ (Pajhwok): Residents of southwestern Nimroz province have said no attention was paid to the protection and rehabilitation of historical sites in the past 20 years.
Concerned about the future of Afghanistan’s cultural opulence, they urged the Islamic Emirate to focus on preserving the ancient sites.
Several historical sites and monuments exist in the province, but due to lack of attention from relevant authorities, some of them are on the verge of destruction.
Mohammad Esa Khash, a resident of Chakhansour district, told Pajhwok Afghan News some of the historical sites in Nimroz had been damaged by floods, torrential rains, winds and other natural disasters.
But the government had taken no steps for their protection, he alleged. “Among sites that are more than 500 years old are Qala-i-Chehal Burj, Chehal Dukhtaran, Amir Sahib Shrine, Gholghola City, Safa City, Ibrahimkhel Fort, Syadak and Safedak valleys, Qala Mohammad and the Maulana Sahib Shrine.”
He complained these sites had been damaged recently. Some tourists visiting these archeological remains have also harmed the sites.
Hafeezullah Hotak, who also hails from Chakhansour, said the Ibrahim Khan Fort situated in the district had a history of over 100 years. “Now it is on the verge of disappearance.”
He blamed the former government for ignoring the sites. Despite receiving massive global aid, the ex-rulers had done nothing for the protection of historical sites.
Nimroz Information Director Habibullah Elham, in an exclusive chat with Pajhwok, said: “The government has long-term plans for the protection of historical and cultural sites”
He urged public support in the protection and maintenance of historic sites and said people should join hands with government in the protection of historic sites.
He said a committee had been formed for the registration and protection of historical sites. Without public cooperation, he explained, the preservation of such sites was not possible.
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