RASC News Agency: A resident of Kabul has voiced dissatisfaction with the Taliban’s decision to raise shop rents in the Sarai Bagh market, stating that this measure imposes additional economic pressure on shopkeepers. On Sunday, June 2, the resident explained that the Taliban’s increase in shop rents comes at a time when the country is grappling with widespread poverty, exacerbating the economic hardships faced by the populace.
This individual further elaborated that the rent hike has placed many traders in a difficult situation amid the current dire economic conditions. Those who were already struggling with significant financial challenges are now forced to pay higher rents for their shops due to the Taliban’s decision. He emphasized that this increase in shop rents is happening at a time when traders’ incomes have significantly decreased, and many are unable to afford the new costs.
Local traders state that this action by the Taliban was carried out without consulting shop owners or considering their economic situation. One trader noted that rising unemployment and decreasing purchasing power have led to a substantial drop in sales. He said, “In these conditions, increasing shop rents will only harm us, and many of us might be forced to close our shops.”
This critical situation requires serious and immediate attention from the authorities to find solutions to alleviate the economic pressures on traders and the public. Traders and shop owners hope that by raising these issues, the relevant authorities will address their problems and take measures to reduce shop rents and improve the country’s economic situation.