Recent Rainfall Revives Afghanistan's Agriculture Amid Heavy Casualties, Damage

Heavy rainfall and snowfall across most Afghan provinces from late February until last week have revived agriculture, moistened soil, greened pastures and replenished dams, rivers and reservoirs, renewing hope among farmers.

The National Disaster Management Authority reported 179 people killed, 238 injured and nine missing from March 26 to April 11 due to rainfall, floods, earthquakes, house collapses and landslides. It added that 1,277 houses were completely destroyed, 5,770 partially damaged and 372 kilometers of roads destroyed during the period.

The Ministry of Energy and Water confirmed the positive effects on agriculture but stressed the need for improved water management.

Farmers in several provinces reported benefits despite the damages. "The rainfall has been a blessing for our crops and livestock," said Abdul Salam in Herat province. Abdul Karim in Ghor said it had improved water availability for irrigation. Hidayatullah in Panjshir noted greener pastures for animals, while Sharifullah in Khost expressed hope for better yields.

Social media images showed rising water levels in the Kabul River, Shah wa Aroos Dam, Qargha Dam and Pashdan Dam.