RASC News Agency: In response to the escalating number of passport applications in Afghanistan, the Taliban’s General Directorate of Passports has declared the establishment of two additional passport-issuing centers in Kabul. The announcement, issued on Monday, January 15th, by the deputy of Afghanistan National Television, operating under the Taliban’s authority, references Noorullah Patman, the spokesperson for the Taliban Passport General Directorate. Patman conveyed that these centers will commence operations once new staff members are assigned, and the necessary technical equipment is provided. The Taliban’s passport department is presently formulating a comprehensive plan, outlining the opening of these centers in the capital city.
Notwithstanding the challenges faced by the Taliban in managing the surge in passport applications, it is reported that their passport office can presently process and issue 8,000 passports daily. However, the recent decision to distribute passport forms in person has led to large crowds of applicants converging on the passport department in Kabul and Herat provinces. This influx has strained the distribution process, resulting in delays and complications.
The upsurge in passport applicants can be attributed to the harsh and violent behavior exhibited by the Taliban since assuming control of the country. The oppressive environment has compelled many individuals to seek opportunities elsewhere, contributing to an increase in emigration. Despite these challenges, the Taliban’s General Directorate of Passports is actively working to streamline the passport issuance process by establishing new centers and expanding their capacity to meet the growing demand.
