Memoirs of Akbar Hashemi – August 13, 1997

After the prayer, I walked for a while on the beach. I got the news from domestic and foreign media. Foreigners' interpretation of the composition of Mr. Khatami's cabinet is positive. Contrary to the usual past interpretations.

We went to see Ashkur area; We went from the city of Rahim Abad, the center of the district by the river Pol Rood, to the end of the Kalachai road. Almost half of the road is paved and the rest is under construction, and one of the goals of the visit is to see this road.

The green and very deep valley is surrounded by forests and there are scattered villages by the water or in the heights; About 400 small and big villages. So far, they have not had a car. Transportation is done by mule and other animals.

In my last trip in 1970, I came with a helicopter and ordered to speed up the construction of the road. The people are very grateful because we have brought the region out of isolation and deprivation in this way. Hazelnut product, similar to pistachio, is profitable in Rafsanjan. Electricity goes along with the way. They also have a school and a health center, and a large number of Russian jeeps that they bought from the army in an auction. It is old and from before the revolution.

We stopped next to a farm. An old man from Basiji, the owner of the farm named Babayi, immediately recognized me; Although I did not have a turban. He explained and served with hazelnuts and plums. I gave him half a coin. On the way back, they were sitting on the road with his daughter and son and gave some fresh hazelnuts for us to take as souvenirs. He requested to build a water source for the village and forgive the loans of the earthquake victims.

At the end of the valley, we reached the village of "Sapadeh", which is supposed to be connected to the road that comes from Tankabon through Jannet Rudbar Valley. We were supposed to walk this peak and return that way, the cars on the other side were not ready, so we turned back.

I talked to the road construction officials from the road department. They carve the mountain and sometimes make tunnels. They had good equipment. A part of the cost was provided by the deprived areas office. I gave them half a coin to buy a sheep and roast it.

We arrived at Ramsar residence at half past three in the afternoon with great fatigue. I used the sea in the evening. Today the sea is stormy. In addition, the sea water has receded a little; It seems to be going backwards. Since a year ago, there has been no improvement. Children and bodyguards also enjoy swimming, playing volleyball, soccer, and jet skiing; It is good fun.