Afghan Bank Customers Face Ongoing Cash Withdrawal Struggles Due to ATM Shortage

Bank customers in Afghanistan are expressing dissatisfaction over a shortage of ATMs and difficulties in withdrawing cash. Despite improvements in banking services, accessing funds remains fraught with challenges.

Shortage of ATMs in Afghanistan

Bank customers across Afghanistan are reporting difficulties in accessing cash. While there has been a relative improvement in banking services, the lack of automated teller machines (ATMs) and the malfunctioning of some units have led to long queues at those that are operational.

Residents of Kabul and other provinces have highlighted their experiences with cash withdrawal challenges in conversations with the media. These issues are primarily attributed to inactive machines and the lengthy lines at operational ATMs. Sohrab, a resident of Mazar-i-Sharif, recounted, “I needed cash one day and went to an ATM, but it was out of order. They need to increase the number of these machines.”

Furthermore, Ameenullah, a resident of the eighth district of Kabul, noted, “The congestion and malfunctioning of machines regularly hinder cash withdrawals. This issue requires serious attention.”

Number of ATMs and Population Statistics

According to Bakhtar News Agency, there are currently about 350 active ATMs throughout Afghanistan, while the country’s population is approximately 37.2 million. Hasib Noori, spokesperson for the central bank, announced ongoing efforts to boost the number of ATMs to facilitate easier access to banking services.

Challenges Facing Afghanistan’s Banking System

Economic experts believe that the current number of ATMs is insufficient for Afghanistan, and there are also concerns regarding their quality. Mohammad Bashir Dodi, an economic analyst, emphasized that ATMs should be effectively operational across all provinces: “This issue must be addressed not just in Kabul but throughout the entirety of Afghanistan.”

He also pointed out other challenges facing the banking system, stating that some essential services are not being delivered adequately. Since the Taliban’s return to power in 2021, issues in the banking sector have significantly escalated, and despite some improvements, customers continue to face challenges such as a shortage of ATMs and difficulties in accessing banking services.