KABUL, AFGHANISTAN – Local Taliban authorities in Panjshir located in northeastern of Afghanistan say that four children were killed after being struck by a vehicle in the province.
Saifuddin Laton, spokesperson for the Taliban governor in Panjshir, said the incident occurred on Friday (July 10) in Hesa-e-Awal district of the province.
According to him, a Toyota Corolla hit the four children due to excessive speed and reckless driving. Laton did not specify the ages of the victims, but the children were reportedly very young.
He added that the driver has been arrested.
Local sources in Panjshir said the incident took place in the Omarz area of Hesa-e-Awal district. According to the sources, the driver was a tourist who had traveled to Panjshir for recreation.
Panjshir’s roads are considered among Afghanistan’s most hazardous, with many routes being narrow, winding, and passing through steep mountainous terrain, increasing the risk of traffic accidents.
In recent years, members of the Taliban have also been involved in several traffic incidents across Afghanistan, according to local reports.
Traffic accidents remain a major cause of death and injury in Afghanistan. Poor road infrastructure, inadequate traffic enforcement, speeding, reckless driving, aging vehicles, and limited emergency medical services all contribute to the high number of road fatalities each year. Mountainous provinces such as Panjshir face additional risks because of their narrow roads, sharp curves, and difficult driving conditions.
Road crashes have surged since the Taliban returned to power in 2021. Data reviewed by Etilaatroz and KabulNow indicate a fivefold rise in accidents, with 1,187 recorded between March 2021 and March 2022, rising to 2,662 the following year, and at least 5,520 between March 2023 and March 2024, a nearly 80% increase over two years. Recent reports indicate the trend has persisted, with hundreds killed and injured in recent months across multiple provinces.
Panjshir Province is a mountainous province located in the northeastern part of Afghanistan, north of Kabul. It is surrounded by high valleys and rugged peaks of the Hindu Kush range, which gives it a naturally cool climate compared to many other parts of the country.
During the summer season, its mild weather, green valleys, rivers, and scenic landscapes make it a popular destination for people seeking relief from heat and a place for recreation and tourism. Many visitors are attracted to its natural beauty, fresh air, and peaceful valley environment.
