Taliban Asserts Full Control Over Afghanistan’s Water Resources
The Taliban has declared full authority over Afghanistan’s water resources, stating that the management of water and the construction of dams within the country fall solely under its jurisdiction, with no foreign nation, including Pakistan, having any right to interfere.
Zabihullah Mujahid, spokesperson for the Taliban administration, made the remarks during an interview with Pakistan’s Khyber TV. He emphasized that just as Pakistan manages its water resources within its own territory, Afghanistan possesses the same rights and authority. Mujahid said water projects are strictly an internal matter for Afghanistan.
This assertion comes as Taliban leader Mullah Hibatullah Akhundzada recently issued an order to begin construction of the Kunar dam. Following this directive, Afghanistan’s Ministry of Water and Energy is seeking to attract companies to invest in the development of the project.
The Kunar River flows from eastern Afghanistan into Pakistan, and experts suggest that building a dam on it could reduce the natural flow of water across the border—a prospect that has already sparked regional concern.
In addition to the Kunar project, construction is underway on the Bakhshabad dam in Farah province, reportedly aimed at preventing the flow of Farah Rud River water into Iran. These water infrastructure developments have heightened concerns over the Taliban’s water management policies and their potential impact on regional relations and the environment.
