In Bamyan, which is considered the most peaceful province of Afghanistan, the footprints of insurgents have begun to appear. Bamyan falls among the seven provinces and cities handed over to Afghan security forces this summer. After spoiling the security of Herat and Lashkargah cities - that were also transitioned this year, the Taliban seem to have turned their attentions towards Bamyan province.

That is clear from the recent terrorist activities that have happened in the province. The insurgents on Thursday, September 01, 2011, attacked a police convoy, which killed at least three police officers and one civilian in Shahristan Kamrod district, located in northeastern Bamyan province.

On August 01, 2011, a roadside bomb explosion killed one NATO soldier in Kohmard district of Bamyan province. Earlier this year Jawad Zahak, the head of Bamyan provincial council was abducted by militants while he was in the way to Kabul from Bamyan and then killed.

The security of the province is getting worse. This has increased the concerns of the local people who have been great supporters of peace and democracy in the post-Taliban Afghanistan. Although the security and political authorities of Bamyan deny linking the recent activities of terrorism to the transition process, analysts think the other way.

Taliban are trying to bolster their influence and activities in the areas previously known as peaceful – northern and central provinces. Bamyan as peaceful, mineral rich and historic province has not been lucky enough to grab the attention of the government of Afghanistan and international community in regard to development works.

The reconstruction and development works that have so far taken place in this province is negligible as compared to many other provinces of Afghanistan which are thought to be highly insecure. Keeping that in view, the growth in insurgency will further add to the sufferings of the people living in Bamyan.

Keeping security under thumb in the seven areas transitioned, this is a responsibility and a test for the Afghan security forces. If Afghans continue to receive news of growing insurgency in Herat, Lashkargah and Bamyan, would be questioned and the next phase of security transition would fall in doubts.