Landslide Threatens Kabul’s Chahahlstoon Mountain Communities

A section of the Chahahlstoon Mountain in Kabul has experienced a landslide, putting hundreds of families at risk. The National Disaster Management Authority has issued a warning for residents to evacuate the area.

Landslide at Chahahlstoon Mountain Poses Threat to Hundreds of Families in Kabul

A portion of the Chahahlstoon Mountain, located in the seventh district of Kabul, has developed cracks and begun to slide, raising serious concerns about the safety of hundreds of families living in the surrounding area. On Saturday, September 18, the Taliban’s National Disaster Management Authority reported that if the sliding continues, there are serious risks for these families, urging them to leave the area for their safety.

The authority emphasized that the landslide is attributed to the non-standard extraction of stone from Chahahlstoon. To assess the situation, a specialized technical team has been dispatched to the site. Taliban officials have warned that hundreds of homes around Chahahlstoon are at potential risk of landslides and rock falls.

Public Reactions

Many citizens have expressed their concerns on social media regarding the situation. A Facebook user commented, “Creating a safe environment and providing shelter is one of the fundamental responsibilities of authorities. What options do the destitute people have?” Another individual living near Chahahlstoon highlighted the danger posed to homes close to the mountain.

Hassan Malistani, a geologist, told Radio Free Europe that serious precautionary measures need to be taken. He added that new construction in the area should be halted and mining activities should be prevented. Furthermore, engineers should assess the risk-prone areas.

Causes and Risk Factors

Khalil Ahmad Nadem, a geology expert, noted that Afghanistan has geological faults that have been identified. He mentioned one such fault is named the “Kabul Block,” which runs through Kabul and extends toward the vicinity of Pakistan. Nadem advised the public to report any signs of danger to the appropriate authorities and take action for their safety.

He further stated that in addition to stone extraction, excessive groundwater extraction and the construction of tall buildings could also contribute to soil instability. Chahahlstoon is one of the old mountainous regions in Kabul, with homes built on the slopes and higher elevations of the mountain.

The shortage of housing and rising rental prices in Kabul have made it increasingly difficult for families at risk to relocate. In recent years, the demand for housing in urban areas has surged significantly due to the return of many Afghan migrants from Iran and Pakistan.