KUNDUZ CITY - A majority of businessmen in northern Kunduz province, demanding beefed-up security, say recent gunbattle between the Taliban and Afghan security forces have left a far-reaching negative impact on trade and economic activities.

The law and order situation has been alarming during the past few months in Kunduz, where security further deteriorated when the Taliban captured Chardara and Dasht-i-Archi districts.

In addition, over 18,000 families reaching to 100,000 in numbers had been displaced from different areas of the province due clearing operation by Afghan forces.

Abdul Rasoul Amiri, deputy director of the Afghanistan Chamber of Commerce and industries (ACCI), said war had caused 70 percent decline in trade activities in Kunduz and majority of the businessmen fled the province.

He said growing violence had caused huge decline in trade activities and exchange of goods and services at Sher Khan Port, the province major trade centre.

Meanwhile, businessmen demanded the government to ensure their safety and security to their business.

But, Police Spokesman Syed Sarwar Hussaini said security forces were struggling around the clock to ensure law and order and protect every citizen, including the businessmen.

Haider Qul, a businessman, said insecurity, abduction, and looting on gun point were major threats they were facing in Kunduz.

“Every businessman stopped more investment in Kunduz and waiting to observe future security situation,” he remarked.

Zamir Khan, running a cement business at the Sher Khan Port, said the export and import of goods had reduced in recent months due to growing insecurity.

Khan, who used to export 15 bags of goods to Central Asian countries, is now sending only two bags . He cited insecurity as the main reason for the decline . (Pajhwok)