RASC News Agency: Informed sources in Herat province have confirmed that the Taliban have not cooperated in the restoration of Herat’s minarets, a project intended to be carried out with the assistance of the Aga Khan Foundation, the leader of Afghanistan’s Ismaili community, aimed at alleviating concerns surrounding these historical landmarks.
A knowledgeable source in Herat province, speaking on condition of anonymity to the RASC news agency, stated that for the past two years, the Aga Khan Foundation has proposed several restoration projects for Herat’s minarets to the Taliban, yet the group has not given the green light to this foundation.
The source added that if Herat’s minarets were restored with financial assistance from the Aga Khan Foundation, it could have addressed many contemporary issues regarding the collapse of these ancient structures and reduced existing concerns. According to the source, the Taliban, not having vested interests in this project, rejected it, leaving the Aga Khan Foundation silent and without any plans regarding the matter.
Furthermore, another source in Herat province told the RASC news agency that the problem of minaret collapse in Herat city has been longstanding for the people, and so far, no institution, including UNESCO, has paid serious attention to the restoration of these historical sites.
According to the source, Herat is a city of knowledge and culture, and the existence of these historical sites has enriched the spiritual significance of Herat and its inhabitants for the world. The source adds that Herat holds significant spiritual value among Afghanistan’s provinces, and both domestic and international institutions should pay more attention to the historical sites of Herat.
Meanwhile, Shafi Ahmadi, a resident of Herat province, told the RASC news agency that Herat’s minarets and other historical sites in the city are in disarray and need the Taliban’s consideration for improvement and restoration efforts to be initiated. He stated that the antiquity of these historical sites in Herat province dates back centuries, and proper preservation and maintenance of these ancient artifacts should be ensured.
He further emphasized that the Taliban should not be indifferent to this matter like some officials of the previous government and should not waste time in deceit and procrastination. He also added that it is now time for serving the people, and the country’s authorities should provide worthy services to the people so that the nation recognizes the government’s worth in a genuine manner.
On the other hand, Shaib Khalili, a university professor, told RASC: “As much as the Taliban are active in reconstructing checkpoints and other places, paying attention to the restoration of historical landmarks in Herat province would have a positive impact.” He states that investments from some national and international entities are also being made in Afghanistan. It would be beneficial if attention were paid to the restoration or repair of these historical sites to reduce societal concerns.
Taliban’s heritage protection authorities in Herat province had also told the media a few days ago that the province’s Information and Culture Department is making considerable efforts in the reconstruction and restoration of ancient sites to alleviate public concerns.
