Residents Warn Bost Fortress in Helmand Risks Collapse Without Restoration

Residents of Helmand province have raised alarms over the deteriorating condition of the historic Bost Fortress, warning that the ancient site faces collapse without urgent restoration efforts.

Bost Fortress, one of Helmand's most significant archaeological landmarks, is estimated by historians to date back 3,000 to 5,000 years. Once featured on Afghanistan's 100-afghani banknote, the site has long attracted domestic visitors but has suffered from erosion and neglect in recent years. Parts of the structure are crumbling, locals say, with fears that large sections could be lost without intervention.

"If this fortress is not protected, important parts of it will soon be destroyed," said Jamal, a visitor to the site. "It is an important historical heritage and must be preserved."

Local residents have echoed these concerns, calling on authorities to take action. "This fortress is being destroyed day by day," said Shah Mahmood, a Helmand resident. "If there is no attention, it will disappear completely. This is our historical asset."

Limited restoration work began under the previous government but was left unfinished, and no progress has been reported since. Residents express hope that efforts will resume to safeguard the monument.