Ghazni residents call for construction of standard recreational facilities and modern hotels

GHZNI (Pajhwok) -- Residents of Ghazni province say that although many domestic and foreign tourists visit the province, a lack of facilities prevents them from staying longer, and they are calling for the creation of standard recreational sites and modern hotels.

Ghazni is one of Afghanistan's important historical and cultural provinces, attracting numerous tourists annually to its historical sites and monuments. The Ghazni Information and Culture Department reported earlier this year that 30,000 domestic and foreign tourists visited the province over the past year.

Shamsuddin Hadizadeh, a resident of Ghazni city, told Pajhwok that despite tourists coming to see historical sites, there are almost no suitable recreational facilities, which hinders long-term stays and repeat visits. He noted that the city has only a small park named after Hakim Sana'i, which is insufficient given the city's population and needs. Hadizadeh called for the construction of recreational parks, hotels, standard stadiums, gymnasiums, and saunas.

Mohammad Haroon Arya, another resident, said Ghazni is a key historical province and residents hope that alongside its historical value, modern recreational facilities will meet the needs of youth and boost the local economy.

Social activist Farooq Pouya stated that the province lacks standard recreational sites and modern hotels for accommodation. He added that serious attention to this sector would significantly increase tourist arrivals. Pouya noted that Ghazni has unique historical sites, but the absence of recreational infrastructure leads to short stays, and developing such facilities would enhance tourism and provincial economy.

Officials acknowledge the shortage of recreational and accommodation facilities but say the government is paying attention. Maulvi Hamidullah Nisar, head of Ghazni's Information and Culture Department, told Pajhwok that they have held meetings with municipal officials to take practical steps for building recreational sites. He said some national traders are interested in investing, and one private investor has opened a sauna pool in Ghazni city with an investment of more than $2.5 million.

Nisar called on international aid organizations not to withhold support for providing healthy entertainment for youth and developing tourism. He mentioned that during the previous government, a plain in Nawur district was designated a "national park," but no practical work has begun.