TIRINKOT - Protesters in central Uruzgan province have allowed traffic to ply roads and shopkeepers to reopen their shops in Tirinkot City, the provincial capital, but they would keep the Uruzgan-Kandahar highway closed until their demands are met.
A large number of people have been protesting against kidnapping and murders of passengers on the highway.
The protestors allowed businesses to resume in Tirinkot after a two-day shutdown, thanks to mediation of tribal elders and influential figures.
In recent past, militants snatched some passengers from vehicles on the highway and killed some with others still missing,
The protesters allege besides insecurity caused by Taliban, security forces in some areas also harass passengers.
Mualvi Hamdullah Abdali said the road leading to Tirinkot City was reopened after successful talks with protesters. The road blockade had multiplied common people’s problems, he said.
He said people were run out of food and other necessary items as the city remained closed for days due to the protest.
He said under an agreement reached with the protesting people, their problems would be conveyed to the officials concerned.
Shah Walli, a shopkeeper in Tirinkot, said he opened his shop after two days and now people could buy items they needed.
Deputy Governor Abdul Wahid Patan said complaints of protesters had been conveyed to the central government and would be shared with officials in Kandahar.
Kandahar Police spokesman Matiullah Helal told Pajhwok Afghan News they would investigate the claims of the protestors and would punish police who bothered passengers.(Pajhwok)