KABUL (SW) – Rampant insecurity casted a shadow over the traditional Nouroz celebrations across the country, especially in Kabul as Afghanistan entered 15th Century (Solar Hijri) on Sunday.
In conversation with Salam Watandar, a number of Kabul residents said the constant threats of targeted assassinations and magnetic bombs blasts barred them from daring to celebrate the arrival of spring fearlessly.
Zahra Amiri, a resident of Kabul, said: “Nouroz has been celebrated for years and people have been celebrating it fearlessly, but for a few years now, because of the deteriorating security situation, she has not been able to leave home without a fear in the back of her mind.
She said what the people of the capital city dearly want is peace and security.
Siddiq Mohammadi, another resident of Kabul, said: “The security threat has forced many residents not to come out and celebrate. This is the reason why families do not want their children to go to different places of picnic.
He added the latest casualties caused in back-to-back blasts in Kabul earlier this week proved that situation remains alarming.
Security officials in the capital, however, said they have taken serious measures to ensure peace and order. Firdaus Faramarz, a spokesman for the Kabul Police Command, said in a statement that security agencies were working with the people and maintaining security in the city.
He underlined the need for close coordination and cooperation between the security forces and the people.
ENDS
