$150 million town opens in Balkh; a magnificent development in the shadow of poverty and migration.

Kabul Times News | 2026-05-20
Report; Sami Jahesh

While millions of Afghan citizens continue to struggle with poverty, unemployment, disease and a new wave of migration, a modern town worth $150 million was opened in Balkh province; a major project that the Taliban describes as a symbol of investment growth and reconstruction of the country.

The town consists of eight residential blocks, four of which have 27 floors and the other four have 17 floors. According to published information, the complex has 1,450 residential apartments and also houses facilities such as a mosque, a religious school, a school, a hotel, a supermarket, a library and a hospital.

At the same time as the inauguration of this project, Taliban officials have announced new privileges and exemptions for domestic and foreign investors; The move is aimed at attracting capital and expanding development projects.

However, many Afghan citizens say that the reality of their daily lives is still tied to economic and humanitarian crises. Rising unemployment, lack of adequate health services, widespread poverty, and continued forced migration are among the challenges that have cast a heavy shadow on people's lives.

Experts believe that although the implementation of infrastructure projects can be a sign of progress towards development, without improving the economic situation, creating job opportunities, and addressing people's livelihood problems, such projects cannot respond to the deep social crises in Afghanistan.