FAIZABAD (SW): The once booming trade of copperware and craft of coppersmith are on the verge of decline in Badakhshan province.
There used by tens of coppersmiths working on various pots and other copperware, but only a handful are left now. Still working at his workshop everyday Abdul Qadoos is one of them. He blamed the government for not promoting the industry, and allowing Chinese products and plastic ware to eliminate the copper products in the market.
He has been associated with this trade for the past forty years now. Awaiting long for customers the whole day, Abdul Qadoos says sale has declined dramatically.
Shabir Ahmad is a young local man interested in learning this traditional craft, but appalling state of affairs have discouraged him. Despite all this, local officials are determined to revive the industry.
Abdul Haseeb Daqiq, director for economy in the province, informed that revival of coppersmith industry is part of the economic development plan. He expressed optimism that with these efforts, the industry could be saved from diminishing.
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