Ghor residents complain of shortages of safe drinking water

FEROZKOH: Residents of multiple villages in Allah Yar district, western Ghor province, say they lack access to clean drinking water and are calling for urgent action.

Villagers from Ghargardak, Abkhaza, Paychiga, Chashmahok, Khushdara, Qalqan, Khakestarak, Khairkhana, Chashmbid, Qadoq, Espiq, Kamzarad and Doshakhi described the scarcity as their primary problem. Mohammad Ibrahim, a resident of Chashmabid village, said people travel hours daily on animals to distant springs in all seasons, a particular hardship for children and women. He noted local wells produce salty, undrinkable water, with digging a single well costing 20,000 to 25,000 afghanis, which most cannot afford.

Ibrahim said his wife developed kidney problems from salty water, leading to high medical costs. Residents have repeatedly requested the Rural Rehabilitation and Development Department and aid agencies for piped water systems, but no action has been taken. He added that natural springs that once reached the area for drinking and irrigation have dried up over the past decade.

Abdul Qadir Faisal from Khakestarak village said the issue affects the listed villages, with people traveling six to eight hours through mountains and valleys. He urged officials of the Islamic Emirate of Afghanistan (IEA), aid agencies and charities to resolve it. Hafizullah from Khairkhana village said women and children drink contaminated water, leading to frequent illnesses like diarrhea and skin problems.

Dr. Fazl-ul-Haq Farjad, a staff member at the provincial hospital, warned that long-term use of salty and polluted water causes serious health issues, including weakened immunity, diarrhea, stomach pain and kidney problems. He recommended access to safe water, deep wells, sustainable supply networks and purification methods like boiling.

Ahmadullah Kakar, a social activist, said the problem stems from repeated droughts and the previous government's failure to provide piped systems, affecting Allah Yar and other areas. Officials say efforts are underway to tackle the shortages.