U.S., Afghan partnership to bring prosperity to region Published Jan. 3, 2008 By Capt. Heather Kekic Mehtar Lam Provincial Reconstruction Team LAGHMAN PROVINCE, Afghanistan -- "I make promises and my job is to fulfill these promises," Laghman Provincial Governor Gulab Mangal told more than 200 tribal elders during a shura, or tribal council, held here recently. Six weeks later, that declaration came true with the Dec. 31signing of an $8 million contract between the Laghman Provincial Reconstruction Team and the Mashriq Engineering and Construction Company to build the first phase of a major new road here. The PRT meets weekly with provincial leadership to discuss the development of the province. The projects that gain the most interest are those - like the Alishang Road - that increase security and stability, explained Air Force Lt. Col. Robert Ricci, Laghman PRT commander. "This is truly a historic day, not only for Laghman, but for all of Afghanistan," Colonel Ricci said. An $8 million project creates a lot of jobs for Afghan people, which inherently brings security and will hopefully enhance Laghman economic growth." Governor Mangal praised the partnership between the government and the PRT, noting that the result would be an increase in the province's capabilities to move people and goods more safely and effectively. "The PRT and Provincial Government have a good relationship. My engineers and the PRT engineers worked together to provide the best quality of work and to select the best contractor," the governor said. "I am very happy for that." According to PRT officials, the road contract is expected to lead to decreased travel time between the province's districts, increased economic exports and easier access to northern areas for government representatives. "I see this project as a symbol of stability and peace for Laghman people," said Governor Mangal. "I hope that the New Year will be full of peace, prosperity and full of reconstruction projects for Laghman people." The performance period for the contract begins Jan. 6 and the contractor has 485 days to complete the project. The first phase of Alishang Road will be 14.26 miles long, approximately 23 feet wide and will incorporate two bridges. The first bridge will be 393 feet long and the second bridge will be 295 feet long. Each bridge will be 27 feet wide. A proposed second phase to complete the road is awaiting approval and funding. Comment on this story (comments may be published on Air Force Link) Click here to view the comments/letters page