20 NOVEMBER 2011 | GUZARA, AFGHANISTAN

 

In Charborjak Village, a dirt road laces its way through a riverbed and into a neighboring village before arriving at an array of shops and trading stalls near the district governor’s office. During the fall and winter months, farming families using this road enjoy an easy walk from Charborjak Village to the main market in Guzara District.

 

However, in the early spring, the river swells from rain and washes out a makeshift bridge, rendering the route impassable. During these times, residents must risk crossing the water logged road or walk an arduous six mile path that avoids the worst of the danger. A Charborjak elder describes problems that this issue has created: “When the river rises, men are forced to carry women across the water. This is very difficult.”

 

In June 2011, USAID, and its implementing partner Central Asia Development Group, joined 364 residents of Charborjak to gravel the washed out roads and create several culverts along the river. These culverts help to control the river near the Charborjak crossing point, preventing the makeshift bridge from washing away in the flood.

 

The project was completed in August 2011, and for the first time in several years, villagers are able to enjoy year-round access to the market without risking a treacherous passage over the open water.