Physically challenged man grumbles about acute poverty

NIELI (Pajhwok): A physically-challenged man in central Daikundi province, the only breadwinner for his family, grumbles about abject poverty and disability.

Rustam Ghalami, hailing from the provincial capital Neili, told Pajhwok Afghan News he sold a variety of things on his wheelchair to make a living.

Ghalami lost both his legs in a landmine explosion nine years ago in the Nawamesh district of the province.

The 40-year-old, having three children, who cannot work, has to toil to eke out a living. He has no relief from the daily grind.

“My wife and my children take me to the city bazaar, I cannot move myself and need someone to help me,” said the visibly distraught man.

Given his vulnerable financial position, Ghulami has items for sale worth 8,000-9,000 afghanis. He earns up to 200 afghanis daily.

“I sell different items to meet my family needs. I don’t have enough money to set up a shop. At times, I fail to sell anything.”

Ghulami, who lives with his family in a rented house, has not yet purchase fuel for heating in the harsh Afghan winter. He urged the government and welfare institutions to give him assistance.

Hamidullah Rastagar, an official of the martyr and disabled affairs department, said: “We are paying all disabled individuals and martyrs’ families with no exception.”

He went on to comment: “Luckily, the Islamic Emirate of Afghanistan supports all such people who receive their pay every six months.”

aw/sa/mud