Lack of bridge on Amu haunts Takhar residents

TALOQAN (Pajhwok): Residents of northern Takhar province complain about the absence of a bridge on Amu River, saying they have been forced for years to use locally made boats to cross the river.

Haji Chopan, a resident of Darqad district, told Pajhwok Afghan News: “Due to the lack of a bridge, many people lose their lives every year while crossing the river. Patients cannot go across, as cars, food items and other valuables sink at times.”

He said inhabitants of Darqad -- the scene of war for two decades -- had lost all facilities of life. Now that security has been restored, people want the government to resolve their problems.

Bashir, another resident of the district, said, they had no land route to areas across the river. Residents are reliant on traditional boats to access other places.

When the water level goes up, patients cannot reach hospitals in time, according to Bashir, who urged the authorities to build a bridge on the river.

Director of Public Works Maulvi Amir Khan Huzaifa, meanwhile, acknowledged the problem and said he had shared the issue with the ministry concerned.

aw/sa/mud