Paktia’s Shabak Khel valley residents lack basic services

GARDEZ (Pajhwok): Residents in Shabak Khel valley in Shwak district of southeastern Paktia province say they are facing significant challenges due to lack of basic services concerning health, education and telecommunication.

They explain that the valley is located about 12 kilometers from the district centre, situated in mountainous terrain. The road leading to their area is in poor condition, making travel difficult, especially during winter when snowfall often blocks access.

Habibullah, a resident of the area, told Pajhwok Afghan New the road connecting their valley to the district centre was damaged and frequently becomes impassable due to snow in winter.

He added: “We have many problems here. Our girls’ school was established a long time ago, but teachers are often absent. Additionally, there is no telecommunication network, which is another major issue. The 12-kilometer road to the district centre is in a rundown condition and remains closed for long periods in winter.”

Another resident, Khair Shah, also shared similar concerns, stating that the valley has been neglected for years, leaving the people struggling with various issues.

“We face many difficulties here. First, there are no teachers in our school, which is a major problem. In the health sector, a clinic contracted to an organization stopped services as soon as the contract ended. Last year, our clinic was closed for several months. Moreover, telecommunication networks don’t function, which makes it difficult to communicate in emergencies,” he said.

Several other residents echoed these concerns and urged government officials to address their problems.

In response, officials assured the people that steps are being taken to resolve their problems.

Deputy governor Maulvi Inamullah Salahuddin told Pajhwok roads had been constructed in many remote areas of the province this year based on the Islamic Emirate of Afghanistan (IEA) leadership order.

Construction work will commence in several projects in order to address these concerns in upcoming year, he assured.

“We are working to address all public concerns, and by God’s will, we will solve them. Our leaders have promised that major development projects will be initiated next year. We have made requests to improve healthcare, education, and agriculture services for the people,” he said.

kk/ma