Residents of Herat Raise Alarm Over Growing Urban Waste Problem
Residents of Herat city say that the increase in waste accumulation in several urban areas has become a serious problem that, if continued, could threaten public health. They urge the responsible authorities to prioritize regular waste collection and the installation of waste bins as an urgent matter.
According to residents, the piling up of garbage in alleys and crowded areas not only mars the city’s appearance but also creates conditions conducive to the spread of diseases. They emphasize that the persistent negligence of the responsible departments in this regard could have severe health consequences.
Environmental experts also warn about the implications of increasing waste. Jasem Aslami, an environmental expert in Herat, says household and public waste must be managed regularly; otherwise, environmental pollution, respiratory diseases, and other health issues will rise. He believes that scattered, unplanned actions will not yield effective results.
Meanwhile, officials from Herat Municipality report ongoing efforts to clean the city. Naser Armal, the spokesperson for the department, stated that around 450 sanitation workers operate in two shifts across different city districts, collecting nearly 800 cubic meters of waste daily and transporting it outside the city.
He added that large waste bins have been installed at 40 locations in the city so far, and this process continues. Small waste bins will also be installed in various parts of the city to prevent garbage accumulation in crowded areas. Municipality officials further note that besides their personnel, 35 private companies also participate in waste collection and transportation.
Despite these efforts, residents and experts stress that effective waste management requires stronger coordination among the responsible bodies under Taliban administration and continuous cooperation from the public; otherwise, current measures will not meet the needs of a densely populated city like Herat.
