Afghanistan: Power disruptions reported in Kabul and nearby areas from June 28

Event

Officials at state-run utility provider Da Afghanistan Breshna Sherkat (DABS) have reported power disruptions in Kabul and the nearby provinces of Maidan Wardak, Nangarhar, Ghazni, and Paktia from June 28 caused by apparent sabotage in Paghman District, Kabul Province. Militants have apparently destroyed or damaged at least two transmission towers supporting power lines bringing electricity imported from abroad. Officials have warned that Kabul and nearby areas are likely to continue experiencing intermittent outages. Intensified fighting in parts of northern and eastern Afghanistan may delay repairs.

Diplomatic missions, government buildings, upscale hotels and restaurants, larger companies, and airports that generally rely on private generators are unlikely to be directly affected by the power outage; however, smaller businesses may be forced to shut down. Traffic disruptions are possible in Kabul as traffic lights may not function in affected parts of the city. Security and water filtration systems dependent on local power infrastructure may also be affected.

Context

Taliban militants have sabotaged electricity infrastructure in and around Kabul Province with increasing frequency in recent months. Afghanistan is highly dependent on imported electricity. Further sabotage incidents and related utility disruptions are highly likely as the Taliban continues to expand its influence and effective control over multiple areas of the country.

Advice

Confirm all business appointments in Kabul and other affected areas, as well as the functioning of security systems. Allow additional time for travel in urban areas, treat any malfunctioning traffic light as a four-way stop, and plan for commercial disruptions.