Taliban Bans Rickshaws on Highways Across Afghanistan to Curb Traffic Accidents
The Taliban’s Ministry of Interior has announced a ban on rickshaw traffic on highways and public roads across the country to reduce traffic accidents. On Monday, July 8, the ministry issued a statement warning drivers that those violating this order would face “legal action.”
According to the statement, tractors, tri-wheels, and other vehicles lacking proper lights, indicators, and necessary equipment are also prohibited from operating on highways and public roads during nighttime hours. The Taliban administration stated that the purpose of this decision is to prevent traffic incidents.
Previously, the Taliban had already banned rickshaw traffic on public roads in Herat city. Local authorities at that time cited the reduction of urban congestion as the reason for the ban. However, some drivers said these restrictions directly impacted their income and jobs, as no alternative employment was provided.
In Herat and several other cities, rickshaws, alongside taxis, form a part of the urban transportation system and provide employment opportunities for many residents. Given the absence of an organized and nationwide public transport system in Afghan cities, these small vehicles are an accessible and low-cost option for many citizens.
Although traffic congestion and lack of safety standards are considered serious challenges on highways and city roads, some experts believe that managing this sector requires comprehensive planning, building proper infrastructure, and providing alternative job opportunities — issues that the Taliban administration has yet to clearly address.
