KABUL (Pajhwok): Following Pajhwok's reports about fuel prices, an authorized delegation has decided to allow high-tonnage tankers to transport fuel to Kabul through the Salang route in an effort to help reduce fuel prices.

On Wednesday (October 8), Pajhwok Afghan News reported that compared to the beginning of the current solar year 1404, fuel prices in the global market have decreased by five percent, while in Afghanistan they have increased by 22 percent - despite the afghani appreciating by 4.6 percent against the US dollar.

Analysts say fuel prices in Afghanistan have risen because currently only high-quality fuel - which is also more expensive in global markets - is being imported. Under the new standard, the import of low-quality fuel is prohibited. In addition, due to the reconstruction of the Salang highway, large fuel trucks have been unable to use this route for about five months.

The report noted that several people had urged the government to expedite the reconstruction of the Salang highway and allow large trucks to resume travel, as most high-quality fuel is imported through this route.

Two days after the report, the Deputy Spokesman of the Islamic Emirate, Hamdullah Fitrat, published on his X a statement from the committee responsible for preventing the import of low-quality fuel.

According to the statement, the committee - accompanied by the Technical Deputy Minister of the Ministry of Public Works - visited the Salang highway last Thursday.

After inspecting the ongoing reconstruction works and holding discussions with relevant officials, they decided that high-tonnage (ten-wheel) tankers transporting fuel and gas - introduced through the Amarti Fuel and Gas Company via the Hairatan Port Directorate and Aqina Port Management - would be allowed to deliver fuel to Kabul.

However, empty tankers returning from Kabul must use an alternative route.

The statement added that these fuel shipments began on Friday night.

According to the source, the decision aims to ensure organized fuel transportation, protect the ongoing road reconstruction, and accelerate efforts to meet public needs.

The statement concluded that as a result of this measure, fuel prices in Kabul and southern provinces are expected to decrease, contributing to greater market stability.

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