Rising Residential Rents and Housing Shortage Raise Concerns Among Kabul Residents

Kabul residents have raised complaints over increasing residential rental prices and a shortage of suitable housing, urging officials of the Islamic Emirate of Afghanistan to address the issue.

Ghulam Sana'i, a resident of Mirwais Maidan, said his landlord doubled the rent on his two-room home from 6,000 Afghanis per month to 12,000 Afghanis, adding that he is unemployed and struggling financially. Abdul Razeq, a laborer, said job opportunities are scarce and his 7,000 Afghanis monthly rent is difficult to afford.

Officials at Kabul rental agencies attributed the rent hikes to the return of Afghan migrants from neighboring countries and a housing shortage amid economic challenges. Baryali, an official at one agency, said mortgaged two-room houses that previously cost 400,000 Afghanis now fetch 1 million Afghanis, with monthly rents reaching 10,000 Afghanis. Nezamal Din, from another agency, said many returning citizens have increased demand, while some homeowners face economic difficulties.

The Ministry of Justice of the Islamic Emirate of Afghanistan stated it is supervising rental agencies and has closed 55 rental transaction offices in Kabul over the past three months for violations and illegal activities. Barkatullah Rasouli, ministry spokesman, said the closures occurred during the months of Qaus, Jadi and Dalu in the year 1404 after examining hundreds of offices.

The rising costs and limited housing options continue to concern residents in the capital.