Call for restoration of at-risk historical sites

HELMAND (TOLOnews): Residents of Helmand express concern over historical site deterioration, seek government intervention.
Residents of Helmand are expressing their concerns over the potential collapse of historical sites within the province, urging for reconstruction efforts by the interim government.
They point out that most historical sites have been put at risk of destruction due to past conflicts, natural disasters, and neglect by authorities, with Qala-e-Bost, Sultan Mahmud Ghaznavi’s palace, and the sites of Zamin Dawar, Sarawan, and Amir Kror being notable examples.
Afghanistan is culturally rich, yet due to historical conflicts, many of its historical and ancient sites across the nation have been damaged or are under threat of destruction.
Adam Khan, a resident of Helmand, told TOLOnews, “In the era of Mohammad Daoud Khan, this site attracted many tourists, and it was enjoyed by the local populace for its beauty.”
Saifuddin, another resident of Helmand, remarked, “During the previous administration, efforts to restore this historic site began but were halted again with the resurgence of conflict.”
Abdul Wahid, a resident of Helmand, stated, “Qala-e-Bost, once a beautiful site, is now ruined. It needs to be restored so tourists can visit and a positive image of this place can be portrayed.”
However, officials from the Helmand Directorate of Information and Culture have indicated that with budget allocation, they would proceed with the restoration of the province’s historical sites.
Sultan Mohammad Hanif, head of the cultural department of the Helmand Directorate of Information and Culture, commented, “We have established a protection security unit to protect encroached historical sites. So far, we have managed to liberate many historical locations from encroachment and remain committed to preserving the nation’s historical treasures into the future.”
According to the Helmand Directorate of Information and Culture, Qala-e-Bost, Sultan Mahmud’s palace, and the sites of Sarawan, Zamin Dawar, Bolan Pir Sabz, and Mukhtar are among the province’s significant historical and ancient landmarks, with some dating back thousands of years.