SHEWAN, Afghanistan (April 22, 2010) – Local officials gathered for a shura hosted by Farah Provincial Governor Rahool Amin to discuss issues concerning the province in the district of Bala Baluk, Afghanistan, April 22.Although, security and governance is a popular topic of discussion during local shuras, the need for Bakshabad Dam was the underlying theme during this meeting.
Bakshabad Dam would allow Afghans to irrigate throughout the year ultimately enabling them to grow various types of crops, said U.S. Navy Cmdr. Jim Mann, Provincial Reconstruction Team Farah commander. It is estimated that the dam could bring in up to $200 million in revenue annually. In more than three years the revenue would surpass the cost of the proposed $500 million dam.
The shura, lead by Amin, preceded the upcoming Peace Jirga scheduled to be held mid-may of this year.
“The first thing you should mention to President Karzai, at the Peace Jirga, is the need for the Bakshabad Dam, not only to improve and sustain our economy but also to provide jobs,” urged Amin.
The Bakshabad Dam would potentially provide a multitude of jobs for the people of Farah province. The project would serve a two-fold purpose; providing jobs and decreasing the likelihood of locals joining becoming insurgents.
Often times, the local populace will turn to the Taliban in order to provide for their families.
“Not only would this dam be beneficial to the people of Bala Baluk, but it would provide for people throughout Farah province,” said Haji Mohammad, Head of shura for Pasaw village.
Provincial Ministry Directors, local Bala Baluk officials, Afghanistan National Police, Afghanistan National Army and Coalition forces were all in attendance.
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