Water crisis in Afghanistan worsens as millions return

Kabul and much of Afghanistan are facing worsening water shortages after an unusually weak snowfall and reduced reservoir inflows, while the return of more than five million people since 2023 has increased pressure on water systems and services amid cuts to international aid.

Kabul and other parts of Afghanistan are experiencing worsening water shortages after an unusually weak snowfall this wet season. Lower mountain snow and reduced reservoir levels are reported to be reducing groundwater and supplies behind key dams. At the same time, more than five million Afghans have returned from Iran and Pakistan since 2023, increasing pressure on urban and rural water systems. International aid cuts and reduced NGO operations have further constrained water, health and sanitation services. Key facts: - Snowfall this season was reported at a roughly 25-year low, reducing replenishment of groundwater and reservoir inflows. - Since 2023, over five million returnees from Iran and Pakistan have returned to Afghanistan, with about 2.9 million reported in 2025, pushing the population up by more than 10% and increasing demand for water. - Reports from NGOs and aid agencies note falling groundwater levels, many wells running dry, and projections that some aquifers could be depleted by 2030 in affected areas. - Humanitarian funding declined (reported as a 37% drop in 2025) and organisations including Save the Children and Mercy Corps have reduced services or footprint, affecting clean water, sanitation, health and education support. Summary: The combination of weak snowfall, rising population from returnees, and reduced aid is increasing humanitarian and economic strain and limiting access to clean water for many communities. Several large NGOs report reduced operations and a risk of office closures in Kabul, while planned large infrastructure projects have not progressed. Undetermined at this time.