The Salang Pass, a vital section of the Kabul-Balkh Highway, reopened early Friday after a temporary closure caused by heavy snowfall, severe storms, and poor visibility, the Taliban-run Ministry of Public Works announced.
The ministry said that snow-clearing operations allowed the critical mountain pass to reopen, restoring traffic flow between Kabul and nine northern provinces.
The closure had disrupted the movement of goods and passengers, a recurring challenge during Afghanistan’s harsh winter months.
In September, the ministry imposed restrictions on cargo trucks through the pass, citing safety concerns. Alternative routes such as the Doshi-Bamiyan and Khawak roads remain accessible 24 hours for passenger vehicles, the ministry stated.
The ministry reassured that efforts are ongoing to maintain access to the Salang Pass through the winter, though severe weather conditions may continue to pose disruptions.
