Salang Road Closed for 10 Days for Tunnel Maintenance

The Taliban’s Public Benefits Department has announced that Salang Road, one of the country’s vital highways, will be completely closed from October 18 to November 27 for resurfacing work in its tunnels.
Mohammad Ashraf Haqshenas, the spokesperson for the department, confirmed the decision, stating that no vehicle traffic will be allowed on this route during the project period. Drivers are advised to use the Doshi-Bamyan route, recognized as an alternative path.
The Salang Highway, which connects northern and southern Afghanistan, is considered one of the country’s main transport arteries. Any closure directly impacts economic trade and the travel of thousands of residents.
This comes at a time when Salang faces numerous risks during cold seasons, including avalanches, flooding, and traffic blockages, highlighting the need for ongoing repairs. However, the Taliban administration has consistently implemented reconstruction projects without adequate public notification or effective alternative routes, causing widespread public dissatisfaction.