Taliban Ban Private and Tunis-Type Vehicles on 16 Kabul Routes

The Ministry of Transport and Aviation has banned the use of Tunis-type and private-plate vehicles for passenger transport on 16 routes across Kabul. According to the ministry, the ban is intended to organize urban transport and provide safer, more standardized, and more affordable travel options for the city's residents.

The restrictions apply to several key locations and routes, including Mirwais Square/Maidan, Dasht Barchi, Qambar Intersection, Pol-e Sokhta, and the University. To fill the gap left by the banned vehicles, the ministry is introducing a combination of buses, taxis, and Mercedes-type vehicles.

However, the decision has faced criticism from those affected. Afghanistan International reports that the ban has resulted in widespread unemployment, specifically impacting approximately 1,500 Tunis vehicle drivers in west Kabul. Some drivers further allege that the new Mercedes vehicles being introduced as alternatives are owned by individuals closely affiliated with the Taliban, suggesting the move benefits specific interests rather than the general public.