Afghan Bank Customers Struggle with ATM Access Amid Improvements in Services

Bank customers in Afghanistan are voicing concerns over the lack of ATM machines and challenges in accessing cash. While banking services have seen improvements, accessing money continues to face significant hurdles.

Shortage of ATM Machines in Afghanistan

Bank customers across Afghanistan are reporting difficulties in withdrawing cash. Despite some relative improvements in banking services, the scarcity of ATM machines and the malfunctioning of several units have led to long queues at the operational ones.

Residents from Kabul and other provinces have shared with media outlets that they often encounter issues when attempting to withdraw money. These challenges mainly arise from non-functional machines and extended wait times at the few active ATMs. Sohrab, a resident of Mazar-i-Sharif, stated, “One day I needed cash and went to an ATM, but the machine was out of order. They need to increase the number of these machines.”

Amirullah, a resident of the eighth district of Kabul, echoed these sentiments, saying, “The congestion and breakdowns of machines constantly hinder cash withdrawals. This issue needs serious attention.”

Number of ATMs and Population Statistics

According to Bakhtar News Agency, there are currently about 350 ATM machines operational throughout Afghanistan, while the country’s population stands at approximately 37.2 million. Hasib Noori, spokesperson for the Central Bank, announced ongoing efforts to increase the number of ATMs to enhance access to banking services.

Challenges Facing Afghanistan’s Banking System

Economic experts believe that the current number of ATMs is insufficient for Afghanistan, with further concerns regarding their quality. Mohammad Bashir Dudiyaal, an economic analyst, stated that machines must operate effectively and be made available across all provinces: “This issue needs to be addressed not only in Kabul but throughout Afghanistan.”

He also highlighted other challenges within the banking system, noting that some essential services are not provided adequately. Since the Taliban regained power in 2021, issues in the banking sector have escalated dramatically, and despite some progress, customers still encounter problems like the lack of ATMs and difficulties in accessing banking services.