Zabul Province

Zabul (Pashto: زابل) is a historic province of Afghanistan. Zabul became an independent province from neighbouring Kandahar in 1963, with Qalat being named the provincial capital. It should not be confused with a new small city Zabol in Irani Afghan border.

Political and security situation.

With its sparse population, insecure border with Pakistan and little central authority, Zabul is a fertile ground for insurgents fighting against the current Afghan government, although the province is considered more secure than some of its southern neighbours [1]. The province has especially struggled with retaining NGO's and teachers in the face of Taliban attacks and threats. Until 2006, the only major international presence was an American Provincial Reconstruction Team (PRT) based in Qalat 32°07′47″N 066°55′41″E, when it was joined by a UNAMA branch.

The current governor of the province is Del Bar Jan Arman.

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The population of the province was reported to be 365,920 in 2004, and the province covers an area of 6,590 square miles [2].

Districts

• Argahandab District
• Atghar District
• Dey Chopan District
• Mizan District
• Qalat District
• Shahjoy District
• Shamulzayi District
• Shinkay District
• Tarnak Wa Jaldak District

Cities

• Qalat
• Shajuiy

Transportation

In 2006, the province's first airstrip was opened near Qalat, to be operated by the Afghan National Army, but also for use by commercial aviation. Twice weekly service was scheduled by PRT Air between Qalat and Kabul. The airstrip is not paved.

See also

• Jayapala
• Abu Ali Lawik
• Zabol