UN Warns Afghanistan’s Cities Facing Severe Air Pollution Crisis

The United Nations warned that Afghanistan’s cities face a worsening air pollution crisis caused by vehicle emissions, factory smoke, and burning coal and plastic during winter.

The United Nations Human Settlements Programme (UN-Habitat) has warned that Afghanistan’s major cities are facing a severe air pollution crisis threatening public health and urban livability.

In a statement posted on Wednesday, October 22, UN-Habitat said emissions from vehicles, factories, and widespread burning of coal and plastic during winter have dangerously worsened air quality.

The agency noted that these pollutants pose serious health risks, particularly to children and the elderly, as respiratory illnesses rise sharply in urban areas during colder months.

To counter the threat, UN-Habitat said it is promoting clean energy, expanding public transportation, and developing more green spaces to reduce pollution and safeguard residents’ wellbeing.

The UN agency stressed that immediate action is crucial to curb air pollution and improve living standards, urging Afghanistan authorities and international partners to prioritize environmental protection.

Each winter, pollution levels spike across Afghanistan cities such as Kabul and Herat as residents rely on coal and plastic for heating. UN officials warn that without stronger environmental policies and cleaner energy alternatives, air quality will continue to deteriorate, threatening millions of lives and the country’s environmental future.

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