Water Crisis in Afghanistan's Helmand Province: Residents Worried by River Drying Up

Agriculture serves as the primary and sole source of income for many residents in the region. The only river in the Musa Qala region, located in southeast Helmand province, has dried up, leaving the local population in a desperate situation, as per an English daily.

However, Abdullah, a farmer in Helmand, has suffered significant losses as his crops have been destroyed due to the lack of water. Abdullah lamented that there was no water in general in Helmand and the water in wells had also dropped. He pointed out that the harvests of wheat had dried up due to the lack of water.

The residents are urging the Islamic Emirate, which currently governs Afghanistan, to address their challenges and provide relief. Unfortunately, there has been no improvement in the situation, leaving the farmers in a state of despair. Abdul Ahad, another farmer in Helmand, explained with anguish that there was a garden of almonds that used to be in good condition. However, due to the lack of water, the almond trees have been destroyed.

The scarcity of water extends beyond agriculture, as residents in Musa Qala are also experiencing a lack of access to drinking water, adding to their plight. An English daily also highlights that the situation is dire, with even basic necessities becoming increasingly scarce.

Afghanistan has long been plagued by conflict, poverty, and a fragile economy heavily reliant on donations. These factors have left ordinary citizens in a state of acute hunger and food shortage. The return of the Taliban to power in 2021 has further exacerbated the economic crisis, with millions of people teetering on the brink of starvation.

It is imperative that the authorities take swift action to address the water shortage and provide support to the affected communities. The international community also has a role to play in providing aid and resources to alleviate the suffering of the Afghan people.