About the project
Bridges are essential to the infrastructure in the remote mountain valleys of Afghanistan. After our first bridge in 2023, we were able to completely renovate a second bridge as part of another bridge-building project – thanks to your donations.
One road, many river crossings
Balna Shabbakhair is a small village in the mountains of Afghanistan, in the Jaghori District of Ghazni Province. In the valley where the village is located, a single road winds its way along the mountain slopes, sometimes to the right of the river and sometimes to the left. It crosses the river at the valley floor time and again. Sturdy bridges are needed so that the residents can move safely around the valley all year round.
Built by the people of the village
The second bridge had to withstand the spring meltwater and remain safe for people to cross. The people of Balna Shabbakhair carried out the construction work themselves over the summer of 2024:
- The riverbed was dredged deeper to make room for the foundations of the new bridge and for the spring floodwaters.
- The bridge’s foundations were reinforced with steel reinforcement bars and concrete.
- The bridge was fitted with a railing and a drainage system for surface water.
Opening in November 2024
The renovated bridge was opened in November 2024. Our Co-President David Hassani was there in person for the opening.
Thank you for your support!
