According to experts, over the past decade, the groundwater level in the Afghan capital has decreased by 30 meters. The reasons for such a critical situation are rapid urbanization and the effects of climate change. About half of the city's wells have already dried up, and the volume of water consumption significantly exceeds the rate of natural replenishment of water reserves — the annual deficit is about 44 million cubic meters.

The ongoing trend threatens a catastrophic outcome for the lives of seven million citizens. According to Dan Curry, Director of Mercy Corps in Afghanistan, lack of water leads to forced displacement of the population, and the lack of assistance from the international community exacerbates migration problems and social difficulties.

In addition to the shortage, the quality of the remaining water raises serious concerns: almost 80% of underground sources are contaminated with sewage, salt and arsenic, making the liquid unsuitable for safe consumption. Residents are forced to spend a significant share of their income on the purchase of clean water — up to a third of the family budget is spent on this. Some families are experiencing financial difficulties due to accumulated debts for utility bills. gazeta.ru.

Private suppliers take advantage of the situation by creating artificial shortages and selling water at inflated prices. One of the local residents, Nazifa, complained that the cost of water supply has doubled literally in a short time: previously, the family paid 500 Afghani every ten days, but now they have to pay twice as much.