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Click on the arrow or first words to see the photo that goes with the caption. See also the map of Afghanistan showing the location of the Taloqan region.
Tents such as the one in the background are frequently used for shelter when houses have been completely destroyed. Ten people sleep in this particular tent in Hazar Bogh. UMCOR/Mercy Corps tents will ease the cramped living conditions for villagers here.
The wood in many homes was burned by the Taliban in Hazar Bogh. Here, the glass from the windows was first taken out, and then the roof and window sills were doused with gas and torched.
Here the beams in the floor of a two story room were burned. Wood is scarce in Hazar Bogh. Villagers have no option but to find shelter with relatives or outside in homemade tents.
Walls of many of the homes of Hazar Bogh are severely damaged, making them unsuitable for winter. Villagers are eager to rebuild, but lack money and supplies.
The level of destruction in Hazar Bogh is staggering in some places. Abandoned houses sit uncared for, taking on the appearance of ruins.
Tudan is a picturesque village perched high above Taloqan City. Its location made it an ideal location for Taliban to hideout before attacking lower positions in the valley.
Destruction by the Taliban has hade the same affect in Tudan as Hazar Bogh. Houses were left unsuitable for living, and with no recourses to recover, people have moved from entire areas altogether. They usually crowd in with neighbors or go to the city.
Wood is a valuable commodity in Tudan as well. Here, beams have been removed from all the homes. Charred walls in the house in the foreground are a reminder of Taliban presence.
The children of this home live with their family in the few remaining rooms in the compound.
Children have been hit hard in Tudan. The elementary school was also destroyed by the Taliban. Village elders told of Taliban torture against many members of some large families that were unable to leave Tudan.
The remains of Tudan's elementary school can be seen in the background. Fifty students used to study here. There are no provisions for continued education for primary students in Tudan.
Makeshift tents such as these are also used in Tudan to house relatives who remain in the village and whose houses have been destroyed.
Tudan will need massive structural rehabilitation in the future. UMCOR and Mercy Corps tents will help villagers stay warm through-out winter, and kitchen supplies will help replace items looted during Taliban raids..
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