New Standard Sports and Aquatic Complex Opens in Samangan Province
Local officials in Samangan province have inaugurated a standard sports and aquatic complex in the provincial capital, constructed at a cost exceeding 35 million Afghanis. Funded by the development budget of the Aybak municipality, the project was completed after being halted for several years.
Mufti Zabihullah Saqal, General Director of Governance at the Aybak Municipality, stated that the project was contracted in 2020 with a value of 35,791,920 Afghanis. However, after reaching 30 percent progress, work stopped for unspecified reasons. According to him, the remaining work resumed in 2024 through efforts by the provincial leadership and Aybak Municipality, completing the remaining 70 percent.
Officials say the complex covers an area of approximately 1,300 square meters and includes a dry sauna, steam sauna, water play pool, hot and cold jacuzzi, gym, showers, equipped toilets, and changing rooms.
Meanwhile, Mawlawi Jan Mohammad Mohammadi, Director of Staff Affairs at the Samangan governor’s office, described the opening of the complex as a sign of positive change in the province and announced future large infrastructure projects. Similarly, Qari Abdul Basir Hakimi, representing local community members, called this project a significant achievement for the Aybak Municipality, stating that it addresses many health and sports needs of citizens, especially young people.
However, some residents emphasize that the continuation of such projects and transparent oversight in their implementation are critical to prevent long-term delays and ensure the effective use of urban budgets under the Taliban-led local administration.
