Agricultural productivity is now increased in Karamar Village

“Our agricultural land is located in close proximity to a mountain range, most of our crops were at risk of flooding in the past. Our crops were usually washed away and submerged by floods during rainfalls when they were ready to be harvested. Fortunately, the construction of a retaining wall in our community has helped to secure more than 700 Jeribs of our agricultural land and largely increase the productivities as it prevented the mudslide and soil erosion around our lands in rainy seasons, especially when the water in rivers and streams turns red.” says Shir Muhammad, the CDC Head of Karamar village in Narang district of Kunar province

Having fully realized its long-term benefits and impacts on local economy, the CDC of Karamar village in consultation with villagers and farmers, convened a meeting and gave top priority to the construction of a needed retaining wall. The retaining wall, aimed at providing functional support for the community agricultural lands and landscaping, has been constructed at a sum of AFN 993,633 funded by the Citizens’ Charter including 10% community contribution (cash, labor or in-kind).

“The construction of the retaining wall 300 meters in length took more than three months. Around 970 unskilled and 250 skilled local laborers have been provided with short-term jobs for a period of 20 days each during the implementation of this project. I am hopeful that we will feel more comfortable with seasonal rainfalls and flooding in terms of damages in future in comparison with past few years”, added Shir Muahmmad.

As heavy rainfalls and flooding are usually common in most parts of Afghanistan in certain seasons, there is a need to structurally protect the agricultural lands by any means that can prevent the flow of water towards the crops and the landscape. Taking the overall advantages and values of the retaining walls into account, the Citizens’ Charter National Priority Program of the Ministry of Rural Rehabilitation and Development (MRRD/CCNPP) has carefully considered the construction of these walls into its plans.

As observed, the retaining walls help divert and drain water away from the agricultural landscape as well as they prevent the earth from moving downhill with erosion. Construction of retaining walls alongside the rivers and streams can also help hold back flooding and water that may cause serious damage to the property or surrounding structures.  

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