Thirst in the Capital: Kabul’s Water Crisis Deepens

A number of residents in Kabul’s District 17 complain about a shortage of drinking water, saying the challenge has created serious difficulties in their daily lives.

According to them, they cannot afford to pay for water, and the continuation of this situation has increased their economic pressure.

Residents of this district are calling on authorities to take immediate action to provide drinking water and address the problem.

Abdul Ghafar, a resident of District 17, said: “Compared to the past, fewer people come to collect water today, but there are still days when people line up, sometimes in order and sometimes not, to fill their barrels. On some days, the number reaches around 100 to 150 barrels per day. Many people wait until late at night and then return home with full barrels, and sometimes even without water.”

Ahmad, another resident of District 17, told : “We are facing a serious water shortage. As you can see, even at this age, we are forced to come and collect water and carry heavy barrels home with great difficulty.”

On the other hand, some private water supply companies that sell drinking water say they are trying to provide water to customers based on demand in this area.

Abdul Fattah, a water vendor, said: “We supply as much water as customers need. However, during the hot seasons when demand increases, the work becomes difficult for us. For example, under normal conditions, we deliver a water tanker for 200 to 300 afghanis, but at that time, the price rises to 600 or 700 afghanis. Our vehicles also face many problems while transporting water.”

District 17 is not the only area in Kabul facing water shortages. Previously, residents in various parts of the city have repeatedly complained about the lack of drinking water. It remains to be seen when this challenge will be resolved.