GHAZNI: An ancient historic tower Afghan city of Ghazni collapsed this week. The tower dates back to about 2,000 years. It raises concerns about the vulnerability of the country’s cultural heritage and the government’s ability to protect them.

The old citadel known as Ghaznain Fort originally had 36 towers, but 14 of them have come down due to decades of war, heavy rain and government’s neglect.

The fort is one of dozens of unique historic sites in Afghanistan – ranging from the pre-Islamic Buddhist center in the Bamyan valley to the 12th century minaret of Jam in a remote area of Ghor province demanding urgent protection and maintenance.

Officials in Ghazni, which nearly fell to the Taliban last year, said the tower collapsed on Tuesday following heavy rain. “The government paid no attention to the sites and didn’t build canals to divert flood water,” said Ghulam Sakhi, who lives near the citadel. “We have warned the government about the sorry state the citadel but no one listened up,” Sakhi lamented. (Agencies)