Afghanistan: Power outages reported across Kabul and at least 12 provinces, as of Jan. 7, due to supply disruption from Uzbekistan

Event

Power outages and load shedding are occurring in Kabul city, as well as at least 12 provinces in Afghanistan, as of Jan. 7. The disruptions began Jan. 5 due to an alleged technical failure at Uzbekistani power plants supplying electricity to Afghanistan. Officials have not indicated when restoration will occur; nationwide power disruptions are possible until supplies normalize.

Commercial and communications disruptions are almost certain in Kabul and other affected areas; outages may impact cellular and mobile services. Traffic disruptions and longer driving times are likely due to malfunctioning traffic signals. Impact on signaling devices or overhead wires may disrupt rail services. Some essential services, such as banking and fuel stations, may also be affected. Blackouts could adversely affect security protocols, including alarm systems and electronic fences; opportunistic criminal activity could increase during electricity outages.

Civilian protests are not uncommon during prolonged power outages. Demonstrators typically gather outside offices of the state power company Da Afghanistan Breshna Sherkat (DABS), government buildings, public squares, and major traffic intersections. Security forces may deploy to large gatherings as a precaution. Clashes are possible if police forcibly break up such rallies. Transport disruptions due to police or protester roadblocks are possible, mainly in cities. Localized business disruptions may occur in case of violence.

Context

Afghanistan imports 450 megawatts of power from Uzbekistan, including approximately 300 megawatts supplied to Kabul. As Afghanistan has an inadequate domestic power supply of 160 megawatts, the unavailability of imported electricity is likely to cause power outages across Afghanistan in the coming days. Winter-related heating requirements also typically increase domestic demand in supplier nations through at least January, affecting power supply to Afghanistan.

Advice

Charge mobile and communication devices and ensure backup batteries are available. Plan for road travel delays in areas affected by power outages due to possible nonfunctional or malfunctioning traffic lights. Exercise caution when driving in recently impacted areas. Confirm business appointments. Verify that security systems are working. Park vehicles in secure areas, and complete ground movements before nightfall. Ensure that generators are functional and refuel devices where necessary. Avoid all protests as a precaution; leave the area immediately for a secure building if violence breaks out nearby,