Reconstruction team prepares to make history

  • Published
  • By Tech. Sgt. Joseph Kapinos
  • 455th Air Expeditionary Wing Public Affairs
BAGRAM AIR BASE, Afghanistan (AFPN) --  The Air Force-led Bagram Provincial Reconstruction Team will make history when it completes two bridges in the Salang Valley early next month. 

The reconstruction team finished the final quality assessment of the bridges Oct. 5.

When the bridges are complete, it will be the first time in Afghan history the valley will be open to vehicle traffic year round. It will also be the first time vehicles will have access to a large marble quarry in the valley.

"This large valley is home to more than 25,000 people and is normally only accessible by foot or animals," said Army Maj. Don Johnson, Parwan PRT leader. "The only times that vehicles can enter the area is during low times in the river, which is not often.

"Opening this valley to year-round vehicle traffic will bring stability, security and governance to a region that has been isolated for a very long time," he said.

Working with local workers and contractors, the PRT members give guidance and technical advice on projects, but all of the labor and "sweat investment" is done by Afghans in the local community.

"This project has meant everything to the people of this valley," Major Johnson said. "In fact, they took it upon themselves to lay out a decent road to the bridges. They did it on their own; no one was paid for the work.

"It shows a real ownership of the bridges and the valley by the Afghans," he added. "They truly do appreciate all the help we have given them."

A combination of civilian and Coalition forces, the PRT works to promote conditions for self-sufficiency, enduring prosperity and a secure and stable environment. From wells to schools to hydro-electric projects, the reconstruction teams are helping rebuild Afghanistan.

"I'm impressed with the focus and enthusiasm of each and every member of the team," said Col. Michael Mounts, 755th Expeditionary Mission Support Group commander. "It is a great thing to watch."