Fire Prevention Awareness Campaign Launched in Kabul

The Directorate of Firefighting and Emergency Response at Afghanistan’s Ministry of Interior has launched a new public awareness campaign aimed at preventing fires in various parts of Kabul. The initiative, which began in the Karte Naw area, is intended to reduce incidents caused by the careless use of electrical appliances and fuel-based materials.

According to information from the Directorate, on the first day of the campaign, special teams visited markets, shops, and commercial centers, distributing thousands of informational brochures and engaging in discussions with dozens of business owners and employees on fire prevention methods. In Karte Naw alone, more than 1,000 brochures were disseminated, and hundreds of merchants received in-person training.

The brochures contain guidance on the proper use of electrical devices, safe storage of gas and fuel, operation of firefighting equipment, and emergency evacuation procedures. Residents were also urged to contact emergency numbers—119 for the fire department and 101 for the police—in case of fire or similar incidents.

Fire department officials emphasized that the campaign will continue in phases across Kabul’s Mandawis (market districts), shopping areas, and commercial centers. Authorities are calling on residents to cooperate with security institutions in ensuring public safety and preventing fires.

While the initiative marks a positive step toward reducing fire-related accidents, officials warn that challenges such as lack of technical resources, insufficient trained personnel, and weak emergency response capabilities could undermine the efforts of both locals and field officers if not adequately addressed by the Taliban-led administration.