Afghan Traffic Police Urge Drivers to Follow Rules During Eid-ul-Fitr Holidays

KABUL — The General Directorate of Traffic Police has urged motorists to drive carefully and strictly observe traffic rules during the Eid-ul-Fitr holidays to prevent road accidents.

Traffic accidents increase every year during Eid due to higher travel volumes and more outdoor activities, the directorate said. Police are intensifying public awareness efforts and encouraging drivers to follow safety measures to reduce casualties.

Fazl Hadi Hamidi, spokesman for the directorate, said officers will remain on duty throughout the holidays to maintain traffic order and ensure citizens can celebrate safely. He called on the public to exercise caution year-round, especially during the festive period, by following regulations and police instructions.

"Drivers should avoid speeding, reckless maneuvers and careless overtaking. Most importantly, families should not allow children to operate vehicles, so that the joy of Eid is not turned into grief due to accidents," Hamidi said. He emphasized that allowing children to drive endangers them and other road users.

Ahmadullah, a Kabul resident, said he plans to travel with friends during Eid but is concerned about accidents, noting many young drivers lack skills and knowledge of traffic rules. He urged everyone, particularly young people, to drive carefully.

Shahidullah, another resident, said he intends to visit parts of the country during Eid but worries about a possible rise in accidents. He also called on motorists to exercise caution.

Last year, the directorate reported 80 accidents nationwide over the four-day Eid period, killing 30 people — 19 men, two women and nine children — and injuring 155 others, including 117 men, eight women and 30 children.