MAZAR-E-SHARIF (SW) – With the arrival of spring, colorful ornamental flowers and fruitful/non-fruitful saplings adorn the roadsides of Mazar-e-Sharif, the center of Balkh province, aiming to catch the eye of passersby by vendors.
However, flower vendors express that this year, even these fresh flowers and saplings are not attracting many buyers, with only a few individuals showing up for purchases.
Nik Mohammad, a flower seller in the city, says that the public’s interest in buying fresh flowers and saplings has decreased compared to previous years, putting many fresh flowers at risk of drying out.
He adds, “There are no buyers; in previous years, we had good sales. Our area was bustling, but this year, it is not half of what it used to be. People’s interest in flowers and trees has decreased and there is no work, no income for people to indulge their interests.”
Abdul Hakim, another flower seller in Mazar-e-Sharif also says, “Although it is better than nothing, this year we have not had much sales. People have become poorer; they can only cover their living expenses. No one is buying flowers and saplings to plant.”
Officials at the Directorate of Agriculture, Irrigation, and Livestock of Balkh, however, state that lately, people’s interest in cultivating flowers and planting saplings has increased.
Mohammad Hussain Azimi, the Director of Agriculture Promotion at the directorate speaks to Salam Watandar about the efforts to expand green spaces and prevent air pollution in the province during the current year.
He says, “Fortunately, people are more interested in flower cultivation now. Currently, there are more than 15 places for flower and plant preservation and sales in Balkh. Every citizen is interested in preserving flowers, and the directorate is striving to promote the floriculture industry.”
Nevertheless, some residents of Balkh emphasize the promotion and institutionalization of the culture of cultivating and maintaining ornamental flowers, caring for green spaces, and planted trees in the city.
Amir Mohammad and Eliyas, two residents of Mazar-e-Sharif, consider the role of green spaces and the existence of trees crucial for creating valuable clean air.
Amir Mohammad says, “Planting saplings has many benefits; we must promote this culture. Every tree planted for its greenery provides clean oxygen for 70 people. This industry and culture must be institutionalized and flourish.”
Eliyas also adds, “We urge people to plant more trees to make their area clean and green; to rid the soil and air of pollution.”
Although citizens always consider planting and maintaining trees, and cultivating flowers and plants beneficial for the country’s lushness, due to lack of care, thousands of seedlings planted along the city’s roadsides dry up every year.
