Another Ride to Downtown

Yesterday, a few guys from my component and I went to our satellite office in downtown Kandahar. We were supposed to meet with a couple of municipal engineers and the Kandahar Mayor, but only one city engineer could show up. It was a little disappointing because we really needed to meet with the mayor to clear up several issues with ongoing projects.

We did our best to make it a productive trip. One of my local designers was working there that day, so I coordinated efforts with him. After grabbing lunch we headed back to our compound and I finished off the day trying to prepare for my pending R&R. The days before going on leave are dreadful because I have to prepare work for my staff wile I’m gone.

I didn’t expect to take any pictures on my way downtown because on the first trip I took over 200 snapshots, but every time I see everyday people going about their day and doing their thing, I can’t help myself.

I have seen this monument several times, but haven’t found out what it’s significance is yet.

Police presence in Kandahar.

Many districts are built of mud brick. It’s primitive, but gets the job done. The only problem is that these structure dissolve in a matter of years.

Foot carts are common here.

Road crews building drainage infrastructure. No mechanized construction equipment here, just picks and shovels.

The gate to the Governor’s Palace. I think there are municipal building in there too, but not sure.

A view from the back seat driving through Kandahar. These two lads are part of our private security detail (PSD).

Solid waste management is a major part of our mission here. As you can see, rubbish is everywhere and is thrown in the streets and in empty lots.

This boy is selling okra. An extremely popular vegetable (or fruit, if you want to be technical) in Afghanistan. Our dining facility serves okra almost every day.

All water in Kandahar is accessed through wells (no public distribution system). I have to admire the Coca-Cola funnel modification on the spout. I’m not sure what the blue tiles structure is, thinking it’s a shrine. I’m assuming the concrete box around it is for ablution. Washing of the feet is sacred Muslim ordinance. Where there is a water source, there is usually an ablution facility.

I have no idea what this little guy was preaching about, but he was surely passionate about it. Very animated in his speaking. Future politician, maybe.

Trikes in Afghanistan have a much different appeal and function than in the West.

These three lads are beating the heat, best they can. No open trunk/hatch laws here.