In reply to Hurriyat Radio English (@HurriyatEN):

CASA 1000: A Strategic Pillar for Regional Energy Cooperation

The CASA 1000 project is a key strategic initiative for regional power integration, with a total installed capacity of 1,300 megawatts. It is designed to transmit electricity from Central Asia to South Asia via Afghanistan.

The Afghan segment of the project is being executed in three phases and is currently ongoing. As of the latest update, 80% of the work within Afghanistan has been completed, according to Da Afghanistan Breshna Sherkat (DABS).

· Phase one resumed in December 2024, covering 197 kilometers from Sher Khan Bandar to Deh Salah District, with 564 transmission towers.

· Phase two stretches 196.4 kilometers through #Baghlan, #Panjshir, and #Kapisa provinces, featuring 587 towers.

· Phase three runs 188.4 kilometers through #Kapisa, #Kabul, #Laghman, and Nangarhar provinces, ending at the #Torkham border point, and includes 562 towers.

Once operational, the CASA 1000 project is expected to generate approximately $60 million in annual revenue for Afghanistan and play a vital role in enhancing economic stability and energy coordination across the region.

In reply to Hurriyat Radio English (@HurriyatEN):

From Leisure to Liability: The Transformation of Tourism Culture in Afghanistan

Eid and holidays offer many families a valuable opportunity to step away from daily routines and share moments of happiness with friends and relatives. In Afghanistan, the arrival of Eid sees thousands of people heading to the scenic and pleasant regions of #Nuristan, #Band-e Amir, #Badakhshan, #Nangarhar, #Laghman, #Kunar, #Parwan, #Panjshir, & #Kapisa. These areas, known for their beautiful nature, lush valleys, raging rivers, & clean air, rank among the country’s most popular tourist destinations. However, beyond the enjoyment of natural beauty, observing the principles of responsible tourism & respecting local residents are issues that should never be ignored.

When accompanied by respect for the culture, traditions, & rights of local people, tourism can contribute significantly to the economic & social growth of a region. Unfortunately, in some cases, a number of tourists have been seen causing inconvenience & discomfort to local residents without considering their privacy. People in many tourist areas, particularly Nuristan, have repeatedly complained about the inappropriate behavior of some visitors. Taking photos or videos without permission, entering private areas, creating excessive noise, & disregarding local customs are among the actions that can damage relations between tourists & local communities.

Maintaining privacy is one of the most important ethical principles in travel. Every individual and every family has the right to feel calm & secure in their own living environment. Tourists must recognize that people’s homes, gardens, & agricultural lands are part of their private lives. Entering these places without permission or photographing people without their consent is improper and irresponsible. Respecting this right reflects the culture and good character of tourists.

On the other hand, protecting the environment and keeping recreational areas clean is a shared responsibility of all citizens. Unfortunately, after Eid holidays, large amounts of garbage, plastic, & food waste are often left behind in nature across some tourist areas. This situation not only spoils the beautiful face of nature but also harms water resources, wildlife, and the broader environment. Every tourist should collect their waste and dispose of it properly. Nature is the common heritage of all generations, and its preservation requires public cooperation.

Respecting the culture and customs of local people is also of particular importance. Afghanistan is a country with extensive cultural and social diversity, & each region has its own distinct customs and traditions. Tourists should respect the values, beliefs, and cultural sensitivities of the people when traveling to these areas. Appropriate clothing, polite behavior, respectful language, & avoiding actions that may offend others can pave the way for better relations between tourists and host communities.

Responsible tourism is not merely about enjoying travel; it is equally about accepting responsibility for the community & the environment. When tourists behave respectfully, locals will welcome them with open arms. This positive interaction can help develop the tourism industry, create economic opportunities for local residents, and better introduce Afghanistan’s natural and cultural attractions.

Eid and holidays are opportunities for joy, peace, and renewed energy. But this joy becomes more valuable when it is accompanied by respect for the rights of others and the protection of nature. If every tourist, in addition to recreation & sightseeing, also considers their moral & social responsibilities, the beautiful regions of Afghanistan will remain clean, green, & attractive for future generations. The culture of responsible tourism helps preserve nature & the peace of local people on the one hand, and on the other hand, it presents a positive & civilized image of our society.

https://hurriyat.af/user/articles/60