Toxic Warfare

In 2017, 3,483 civilians were killed in the Afghan war. That same year, pollution was responsible for some 26,000 deaths. 

Ancient cars and unchecked development pump toxins into the air. But nearly 75% of the deaths are attributable to household pollution.

War-devastated infrastructure left impoverished residents without reliable electricity. During Kabul’s subzero winters, families resort to burning garbage—sometimes indoors—for heating and cooking. Children and the elderly are most at risk of deadly chest infections.

“Fighting pollution is as important as fighting terrorism,” says Mohammad Kazim Humayoun, director of Kabul’s environmental department. 

Associated Press