Kabul, Dec. 7 — Residents of Kabul say they are struggling as coal prices climb, even though Afghanistan sits on large coal reserves, Tolo News reported. Many households, already under financial strain, said they cannot afford the current rates for the winter heating season.
Local resident Shapoor complained that the coal is used domestically rather than exported, yet prices remain high. Another resident, Sayed Rabee, said it is unclear whether traders are driving the increases or taking advantage of returning families from Iran and Pakistan who are economically vulnerable.
Coal remains the main heating fuel in Kabul and other cold regions, despite its contribution to severe air pollution. Coal vendor Nazirullah told reporters that if coal were cheaper, demand would rise, but current prices put it out of reach for many buyers.
The Kabul Association of Firewood and Coal Sellers reported that the price per tonne climbed from 11,300 Afghanis to 12,000 Afghanis over the past week. Association head Ajmal Wahidi blamed long transport routes and the absence of government tariffs for the recent jump. He also noted that the Salang Pass is open, which should help ease costs, and said the Islamic Emirate’s distribution of state-owned coal and removal of a coal tariff have had unexpected effects on market prices.
Separately, the Northern Coal Company announced plans to distribute 130,000 tonnes of coal this winter to colder regions, including Kabul. It said one tonne will be available in 22 districts at a subsidized price of 6,800 Afghanis.
The reporting was carried by Tolo News and syndicated via ANI.
