Posted on 05/15/2007 6:47:16 PM PDT by Rikstir
The UK's Brigadier John Lorimer, commander of Task Force Helmand, was invited by Governor Wafa to address over 400 of Gereshk's influential tribal elders, called a jirga, on Thursday 10 May 2007. It was the first opportunity for the Governor and the commander to speak to the community since the start of ISAF's operation to clear the Sangin valley of senior Taliban members and foreign fighters.
The jirga was also the first time in 28 years that a Helmand Governor has felt able to talk to the people without fear of being attacked by either the Russians or the Taliban. As well as commenting on the improvements to security, thanks to the combined efforts of the ANA and ISAF troops, the commander was able to outline reconstruction work in the town.
"Development has already started in Sangin and Gereshk," explained Brigadier Lorimer. "We have provided support through a number of projects in Gereshk in recent months, including investment in health, education and municipal services.
"In addition the Kajaki dam project will bring new roads, better irrigation and employment to the Upper Gereshk Valley. It is a great opportunity which will brighten your future, but it needs your help and can only work if the Taliban are kept out."
Nearly 2000 British, Danish and Afghan ground forces drove the Taliban from another area of the Sangin valley towards the town of Gereshk in the east of Helmand Province. It was part of the ongoing Operation Achilles which was launched by ISAF and Afghan National Security Forces in March aimed at stabilising northern Helmand Province. The operation was conducted with the support of President Karzai and the Governor of Helmand.
Once the town was secure ISAF engineers began constructing three patrol bases for the ANA whose permanent presence will keep the Taliban from returning to the town. A number of reconstruction projects are being planned with money being made available via the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan and Helmand’s Provincial Reconstruction Team from international Governments, including the UK.
The focus for the redevelopment of Gereshk centres on the town's hospital and plans include a major overhaul of its capability and infrastructure. Once the projects are agreed work on identifying local contractors can begin as ordinary Afghans take the lead in reconstructing their country after decades of war.
More good news that won’t be reported in the msm.
The Kajaki Dam project is crucial to the Sangin Valley. It got coverage during the first few days of the offensive to clear the area, but sadly news has dried out of late.
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