Afghanistan: Afghan Villagers Pour out Life’s Savings to Build Reservoirs

May 20, 2021 | Sayed Salahuddin, Arab News
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First, the water wells and natural springs went dry. Then, the karez and qanats (ancient underground irrigation tunnels) ran out of water, too, forcing thousands of villagers to flee Jaghori, the district worst affected by drought in parched central Afghanistan. With the region facing one of its “worst droughts in memory,” thousands of people are walking long distances to source drinking water, in addition to dealing with a crippling food crisis and the ongoing coronavirus disease pandemic. They face a dilemma — pack their bags and relocate or remain and risk dying of thirst.