LASHKARGAH (SW) – The Taliban in Helmand province have not allowed polio teams from administrating polio vaccines in a number of districts.
According to the officials, the insurgents have not allowed polio teams from administrating vaccines in Nauzad, Kajaki, Bagharan, Mosa Qala, Washer and Sangin districts.
Umer Zwak, spokesman for the provincial governor, told Salam Watandar there are no issues in the districts under the government control, however, polio teams have not been allowed to work in areas where the rebels have clout. He asserted efforts are underway to resolve this issue with the help of the local elders.
Commenting on this situation, Dr. Abdul Ahad Hazim, director public health, said the polio vaccination has been not allowed in some parts of the province, but nothing has been communicating officially in this regard. He stressed the local communities should also play their role as the government alone is not responsible for addressing this issue.
The locals are concerned that persistence of this situation would leave lasting negative impacts on the lives of thousands of children here.
The Taliban have not commenting on this matter publically.
ENDS
