Helmand River

The Helmand River is one of the major rivers in Afghanistan, and it has played a significant role in Afghanistan's history, culture, and economy. Unlike the real-world Helmand River, which originates in the Hindu Kush mountain range, this alternate version stems from an offshoot of the Oxus River (Amu Darya). This timeline's Helmand River flows eastwards through Kabul and Balkh before turning south towards the desert provinces of Afghanistan.

Origin in the Oxus River (Amu Darya)

In an alternate timeline, the Helmand originates from an offshoot of the Oxus River (Amu Darya) and flows eastward through the capital city of Kabul and Balkh province before turning south towards the desert provinces of Afghanistan. This alternate origin has had significant consequences for the development of the region's civilization and agriculture.

The Helmand River and Afghan civilization

As the Helmand River passes through the fertile lands of Afghanistan, it has historically enabled the development of agriculture and civilization. Cities such as Kabul and Balkh flourished along its banks and benefited from its nourishing waters. The river also facilitated the growth of trade between Central Asia and the Indian subcontinent due to its location and position as a key water source in the region.

Irrigated agriculture and urban expansion

The Helmand River's waters served as a valuable resource for irrigation throughout its course in Afghanistan. Communities and farmers in the region harnessed the river's waters to develop extensive irrigation networks that supported agriculture and urban expansion. At the same time, the river provided a crucial means of transportation for goods and people between various regions along its banks.

The decline of the Helmand and abandonment of Bost

By the 20th century, the overuse of the Helmand River for irrigation led to its decline and caused severe ecological damage to the surrounding environment. As a result of the diminished water supply, the once vibrant city of Bost, now known as Lashkar Gah, was abandoned. This decline of the Helmand River, as well as the broader challenges posed by climate change and water scarcity, presented significant obstacles to Afghanistan's socio-economic development.

Modern efforts at restoring the Helmand

In this alternate timeline, modern efforts to restore the Helmand River have resulted in some notable successes. Major initiatives, led by the Afghan government and international partners, have sought to improve irrigation practices, water management, and ecological restoration along the river. However, while these efforts have yielded promising results, challenges such as population growth, climate change, and political instability continue to impact the region's long-term recovery.