Nimruz governor visits Camp Leatherneck

Courtesy Photo | Handshakes and smiles kicked off the second meeting between command representatives from Marine Expeditionary Brigade - Afghanistan and government officials from Nimruz province. Col. George S. Amland, deputy commander, MEB - Afghanistan, greeted Dr. Ghulam Dastigir Azad, provincial governor, Nimruz province, at the Zaranj air field, Sept. 24, before escorting the governor to the brigade headquarters at Camp Leatherneck.  

CAMP LEATHERNECK, AFGHANISTAN

10.01.2009

Story by Cpl. Michael Curvin 

2nd Marine Expeditionary Brigade

CAMP LEATHERNECK, Helmand province, Afghanistan — Nimruz Provincial Governor Dr. Ghulam Dastigar Azad visited Camp Leatherneck Sept. 24 to meet with Brig. Gen. Larry D. Nicholson, commanding general of Marine Expeditionary Brigade-Afghanistan, and discuss ongoing modernization and security efforts taking place within Nimruz.

The primary goal of this visit, the second engagement between the command and the Nimruz provincial government, was gaining Azad's concurrence with the electrification project slated for the city of Delaram.

When completed, the two-grid, diesel-powered system will provide electricity to more than 2,800 homes and businesses. It will also power more than 1,000 streetlights and approximately 250 lights in the bazaar area, contributing to enhanced safety in the streets and marketplaces of the city.

According to Cmdr. Benjamin R. Nicholson, a civilian/military planner and action officer with the brigade and key planner in Azad's visit, in order to sustain the new electrical system in Delaram, Azad had to appoint an electric commission. The commission will collect fees, read meters, and maintain and operate the system. During the visit, Azad agreed, in writing, to appoint the commission.

The commanding general and the governor also discussed the governor's wish for a water project and runway resurfacing in Zaranj. The performance of the Afghan national police and the Afghan national army were also topics of interest with the governor requesting more training for the ANP and ANA.

The runway improvements would help improve commercial air transportation safety in the province while the training for ANP and ANA would enhance overall security, a specific concern in the Kash Rud district of Nimruz.

• Date Taken: 10.01.2009
• Date Posted: 10.01.2009 02:59
• Story ID: 39523
• Location: CAMP LEATHERNECK, AF