JUDY WOODRUFF, CNN ANCHOR: The influx of peacekeepers has started to Afghanistan. A new regime is coming, as we're telling you. By almost any measure, it is a new day in that country. But if anyone thought that the old days could simply be forgotten or disowned, he or she need only look at the most basic building blocks of society. As we hear now from CNN's Harris Whitbeck, even in Kabul those blocks have long since been turned into gravel.</s>HARRIS WHITBECK, CNN CORRESPONDENT (voice-over): This is one of only two fire stations in all of Afghanistan. Located in downtown Kabul, it was smack in the middle of a front-line during fighting between factions battling for control of the city. Shells and shrapnel virtually destroyed its roof and walls, and almost all firefighting equipment. "We only have one active truck," says the deputy fire chief, "and we can't always start it. The war has destroyed all our resources." A recent fire in a series of storefronts in Kabul raged out of control for hours because there was no one to help put it out. (on camera): The winter season increases the danger of fire, because people use charcoal stoves to keep warm. This year, in particular, firefighters say they're not prepared to respond to emergencies. (voice-over): Shoddy equipment and a corps of only 30 firefighters for one of the country's essential services, one example of the many challenges the incoming government will face as it tries to rebuild the country. But help is on the way. On this day, a delegation from Russia's ministry of emergencies visited the Kabul fire station, and promised to donate equipment and supplies. "There is a good opportunity to help Afghanistan politically and economically," he says, "but they will need time and international cooperation to rebuild." As one firefighter showed off his skills, a U.S. B-52 bomber flew overhead, a reminder of the trials this country has endured, and now changes that many hope will make things a bit better. Harris Whitbeck, CNN, Kabul, Afghanistan.
Kabul Lacks Sufficient Firefighting Resources