PRT works to improve irrigation in Konar

Published Dec. 29, 2008
By Sgt. Charles Brice
3rd BCT, 1st ID, PAO

BAGRAM AIR FIELD, Afghanistan -- The Konar Provincial Reconstruction Team is working with Afghans in Manawara District to restore an irrigation system that has become a casualty of decades of war in Afghanistan.

The ancient Karez irrigation system consists of 12 wells and numerous aqueducts which use river water and underground spring water to supply crops in the area. The system was bombed by the Soviets to prevent fighters from transporting weapons and ammunition through the tunnels.

"The age, bombardment by the Soviets and its depth below the surface make it difficult to survey and repair the wells in Marawara District," said Navy Lt. j.g. James Dietle, an Omaha, Neb., native with the Konar PRT. "The team believes there is a blockage in the tunnel preventing the water from getting to the crops. We are trying to help find and fix the kink."

Local residents have taken an interest in the project and have shown their support to the PRT by assisting with inspections. They are hoping to gain an increase in the crop yields from the rejuvenation of the system.

"The locals are helping with the construction," Dietle said. "We have not yet hired a contractor to help repair the Karez system. However, most contracts require 80 percent local work."

Although the maintenance of the system is normally conducted by the community, the PRT is providing a kick-start to get the Karez system functioning again.

"This project has quickly become one of our favorites, it's a relatively low-cost project with a measureable impact of improving irrigation to the community," said Lt. Cmdr. Robert Ross, Konar PRT commander and Bonney Lake, Wash. native. "Not to mention, this project is a high priority for the local government and the PRT. They will see the immediate benefit of their efforts in time for the spring planting season."