Tahir Khan, a farmer from Cheno village in Ghani Khil district, Nangarhar province, cultivates coriander, spinach, and wheat on approximately five jeribs (one hectare) of land. In previous years, he faced significant challenges due to water scarcity. 

The reduced flow in the Cheno karez prevented him from cultivating his full land area and led to disputes among community members over limited water resources.

Upon learning of the Special Trust Fund for Afghanistan (STFA) Joint Programme’s plans to rehabilitate the Cheno karez and its associated structures, Mr. Khan chose to remain in the village. Following the rehabilitation, the water flow increased substantially. Key infrastructure, including a water reservoir, community access points and laundry facilities, was constructed. These developments have especially benefited women, who now have improved access to water for household use.

As a result of the intervention, Khan’s agricultural productivity has improved. The newly constructed reservoir has enabled sufficient water storage for irrigation, allowing him to meet his family’s needs and sell surplus produce in the local market. He expressed appreciation for the programme’s efforts, highlighting the short-term employment created during the rehabilitation process. Community members were also trained in modern techniques for maintaining and repairing the karez system. The initiative demonstrates the importance of community engagement in infrastructure projects. Local consultation, participation in site selection, data collection, and historical knowledge of the karez proved vital to the successful rehabilitation and sustainable management of the system.