KANDAHAR AIRFIELD, Afghanistan – Afghan National Army and police forces, assisted by coalition forces, destroyed a secondary route March 9 frequently used by insurgents to move supplies and to launch attacks. 
The destruction of the route branching off Highway One will increase security and economic stability for the local villages of Takatu and Garnay, Arghandab District, Zabul Province.
The District Chief, Haji Rahmatullah, conducted a jirga with representatives from both villages to gain their approval before implementing the route closure.  Rahmatullah said closing the insurgent supply route would decrease the IED threat and secure Highway One for villagers to use safely.
“We are excited to have the route blocked because it will stop the terrorists from beating drivers and forcing them to use their route so they can toll us,” said a Takatu villager.
ANSF blocked the route by using 800 pounds of explosives to collapse the hillsides bordering the route.  To further impede insurgent movement, Coalition forces also brought additional truckloads of rubble to be placed on the route.  Civilians were evacuated out of the area to protect them from the blast, according to a Coalition soldier.
The people all thanked the district chief for his efforts, according to a Coalition commander in Zabul.
“The destruction of this route will increase economic stability in the Arghandab River basin because there will be less insurgent influence over the traffic flow and transportation in the valley,” the commander said. “This will also encourage the growth of the Bagh Bazaar and other small shops along the government road.”