Afghanistan: Fire ignites in Kabul's Deh Mazang area late Aug. 21-early Aug. 22

Event

A fire ignited in Kabul's Deh Mazang area (i.e., Police District 3), near the Kabul Zoo, late Aug. 21-early Aug. 22. Firefighters reportedly failed to immediately respond to the incident due to the recent Taliban takeover of the city; it is unclear if authorities will mobilize to extinguish the blaze.

Lingering transport disruptions are likely in the vicinity of the blaze. Impacted residents may evacuate from the area over the coming hours if the fire grows in size.

Context

Kabul is under control of the Taliban following a militant offensive that ended with the takeover of the capital and the expulsion of the Afghan government Aug. 15. The capacity of emergency services, including firefighting and medical services, is extremely limited in the city. Thousands of foreigners and Afghans who have worked with them in recent years have been evacuated from Kabul in recent days, and thousands more are likely to be evacuated through at least the end of August.

Advice

Avoid the area. Strictly heed authorities' instructions. Maintain close contact with your diplomatic representation. Maintain a low public profile and dress conservatively.