Major road reconstruction projects launched in northern Afghanistan

KABUL, Jan. 13 (Xinhua) -- Construction work has started on the first phase of three major road projects in northern Afghanistan's Takhar province, with a total investment of 780 million afghanis (nearly 12 million U.S. dollars), local media outlet Tolo news reported Tuesday.

According to the report, the projects cover three key road sections linking several districts of the province. Once completed, the roads are expected to significantly improve transport connectivity, facilitate the movement of people and goods, and reduce long-standing travel difficulties faced by local communities.

Poor road conditions have hindered access to markets, healthcare services, and schools, particularly in remote districts.

Local residents expressed satisfaction with the launch of the projects, saying the roads would help ease daily life and boost local economic activities. However, they also urged the authorities to speed up construction work and expand development projects to other parts of the province.

Takhar, an agricultural province bordering Tajikistan, has for years suffered from inadequate infrastructure, with many roads becoming dusty and impassable in summer and muddy during winter. ■