The National Development Corporation (NDC) on Sunday said that it will change the route of the Qosh Tepa Canal in northern Balkh province.

The goal of the move is to protect ancient structures and ponds, which are situated between the Kaldar and Dawlat Abad districts in Balkh, from destruction.

The National Development Corporation estimated that changing the canal's path would cost three million Afghanis.

"The preservation of historical relics is clearly part of our culture and identity, and we will try our best to prevent any damage to our ancient areas,” said Farid Azim, in charge of the Qosh Tepa Canal project in Balkh.

NDC officials added that the first phase of the Qosh Tepa Canal will be finished in the next six months.

The National Development Corporation said that the construction work of the Qosh Tepa Canal is underway in 120 locations and that nearly 5,900 people are working in the project.

"First, we will build the watershed and second, we will build two bridges on the Hairatan-Balkh highway,” said Azim.

Meanwhile, Jawzjan residents said that as a result of the canal's passage through their province, agriculture will grow and the local economy will flourish.

"If Qosh Tepa Canal crosses through Jawzjan, it would be crucial for the people, for the economy, and for the people's agricultural,” said Abdul Latif, a resident of Jawzjan.

"On one hand, it reduces unemployment, and on the other, it will lead to the improvement of agriculture,” said Abdul Rashid, a resident of Jawzjan.

The Qosh Tepa Canal is one of Afghanistan's major projects. If completed, the country will be able to produce more wheat and grains, moving it closer to self-reliance.