Afghanistan’s Ministry of Public Works under the caretaker government has announced that, effective 10 July, the Salang Highway will be closed to heavy cargo trucks (trailers) until further notice to facilitate a major rehabilitation project. The measure is intended to support the implementation of extensive reconstruction work and improve the condition of this key transit corridor.
The ministry has urged drivers and transport companies to complete the movement of their cargo in both the northern and southern directions before the restriction takes effect. After the closure begins, heavy cargo trucks will not be permitted to use the Salang Highway. No timeline has yet been announced for the completion of the rehabilitation project or the full reopening of the route.
The Salang Highway is one of Afghanistan’s most important transport corridors, linking the northern and southern regions of the country. A substantial share of commercial goods, raw materials, and essential supplies is transported along this route, making it a critical artery for freight movement and economic activity.
Economic analysts say that even a temporary closure of the highway could increase transportation costs and delay the movement of goods. They believe the disruption may affect supply chains, raise transit expenses, influence the prices of certain goods in domestic markets, and impact the operations of transport companies as well as trade between Afghanistan’s northern and central provinces.
Writer:Salima Aryaei
