In pictures: Afghan village
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The BBC's Soutik Biswas has been visiting the Afghan village of Asad Khyl to find out what life is like nearly four years after the Taleban were overthrown. -
In the morning, village elders enjoy a cup of tea while meeting in the shade. It does not take long for the searing summer sun to push temperatures to baking. -
The local governor, right, arrives for a visit. -
Children gather around the well that villagers clubbed together to build. Villagers say they have received next to no help to rebuild from the government and international community. -
There is little left of the grape business that used to sustain the village, because the Taleban destroyed vines during the civil war. Here, a small number of grapes are being dried to make raisins. -
The police are never far away. Some were assigned specially to ensure the security of visiting BBC staff. -
Before long, it is midday and time for village elder Haji Abdullah Saleh to wash up for lunch. -
Teacher Rahmat Gul lays out some sheeting... -
... and a spread is laid out, including kebabs, flatbread and salad. -
For dessert, some juicy melon. -
And after lunch, afternoon prayers in the shade of a large tree. -
Later, as dusk falls on Asad Khyl, a cheery father plays with his child.