KABUL (SW) – In the Deh-Afghanan area of Kabul city, a growing number of residents and street vendors are facing a dire plight due to unemployment. Over the past two years, a significant portion of the population has become jobless, leading many to take to the streets in search of livelihoods, resorting to peddling as a means to survive.
Peddlers working along the roads in this area, urge the Kabul Municipality to provide alternative places for their work, highlighting the pressing need for support and solutions to address their economic challenges.
Faisal, a peddler in Kabul’s Deh-Afghanan area, reflects on the widespread unemployment, saying, “After the change of regime, I became jobless and turned to work with wheelbarrow. After the establishment of the Islamic Emirate, they (officials) took four of my wheelbarrows and two of my stalls.” he calls for a suitable place or a conducive work environment to be provided, seeking support amid the ongoing economic struggles.
Najibullah, another peddler in Deh-Afghanan area, also says: “We face difficulties. We must find a piece of bread for our families. If we do not do this job, what should we do? Where should we go?”
Kabul residents emphasize that when corrective measures are taken by an office, alternative job opportunities should be considered. They urge the authorities of Kabul Municipality to identify a suitable location for street vendors to establish urban order in the capital.
Meanwhile, the Kabul Municipality has declared that buying and selling goods on the roads and sidewalks is considered as a significant violation within the city.
Nematullah Barekzai, the spokesperson for Kabul Municipality, says that sidewalks and roads are designated for the movement of people and vehicles. He emphasizes that the city’s order will not be allowed to be disrupted by street vendors and makeshift stalls.
The Kabul Municipality has affirmed that the presence of sellers on the roads contradicts urban laws, and violators will face legal consequences. “We are committed to enforcing this,” added Barekzai.
