The Paktia Natural Disaster Management Authority reported that five members of a family died as a result of a mountain slide in the Wazi Zadran district of this province.
According to information from this authority, about 60 homes were destroyed following this natural event, and the Gardez-Khost and Gardez-Dand Patan highways have also been temporarily blocked.
Nesar Ahmad Nijat, the head of Natural Disaster Management in Paktia said that following recent rains, in addition to the destruction of agricultural lands and financial losses to the people, some roads and bridges in this province have also been damaged.
“So far, the figures shared with us indicate that 60 houses have been partially or completely destroyed, and unfortunately, another incident occurred in the Wazi Zadran district where part of a mountain collapsed and destroyed the home of a tribal elder,” he said.
Meanwhile, victims of natural disasters, including floods and mountain slides, are requesting immediate assistance and the reconstruction of their homes. A father, three sons, and one daughter were among those killed in this event [mountain slide].
Sheikh Mohammad, a relative of the victims, said, “It was around nine o’clock at night when it happened. Water stored in the mountain came down and buried this house, killing a father, his three sons, and a daughter.”
The victims have said they lack the means to rebuild their homes and that officials should provide them with immediate assistance.
“I do not have the financial ability to rebuild my house. I request that institutions and the government rebuild my house for me, and we need other assistance as well,” said Mohammad Shalil, a relative of the victims.
According to officials, following the rains, on Monday of this week, several sections of the Gardez-Khost and Gardez-Dand Patan highways were temporarily blocked due to mountain slides in several areas.
Afghans come to this recreational area during Eid and on other special days to see the sights and enjoy themselves.
In addition to the local residents of Paktia, scores of people from other provinces of the country come to this recreational area of the province for picnics.
“We ask the government officials to build the streets of special areas of the country; people here do not have access to facilities,” Rafiq Meenawal, a tourist told TOLOnews.
“I have come from Khost province to Aryob Zazi district, this place has the best view,” said Hekmat Shah, another tourist. Although there are some facilities available here at the district such as tents and food vendors, due to the large number of tourists in this area, these conveniences are not enough.—Tolonews
