Qarabagh shopkeepers demand rollback of rent hikes

KABUL: Shopkeepers in the Qarabagh district market in Kabul have complained about sharp increases in shop rents and urged authorities to reduce them.

Zia-ul-Haq, a shopkeeper, said the shops were built on government land with rents first introduced during former President Hamid Karzai's time at 300 afghanis for his shop. After the re-establishment of the Islamic Emirate of Afghanistan (IEA), it rose to 1,200 afghanis, then 1,800, and now 3,000 afghanis. He said he cannot afford the new rate and called on the municipality to lower it. Rents vary by location, with some reaching 7,000 afghanis.

Hamdullah, another shopkeeper, reported his rent increasing from 1,800 to 3,000 afghanis, adding that poor market conditions make it unaffordable for many. He also requested reductions. Some social media users have voiced similar complaints.

The Qarabagh municipality responded in a statement, noting 16 markets and nearly 1,500 shops registered as municipal property. It said rent regulation followed a structured assessment to ensure transparent revenue collection for public services, market organization, cleanliness, security, and infrastructure.

The municipality emphasized that changes comply with laws and regulations, rejecting allegations of extortion or land grabbing as baseless. It pledged investigations into any evidence submitted officially and plans to reorganize illegal stalls lawfully for a fair market.

The statement affirmed respect for shopkeepers and street vendors, aiming for an organized, clean market without depriving anyone of work. It invited concerns for review and consultation, but decisions would align with law, justice, and public interest.