Afghanistan has inaugurated the $117 million Pashdan Dam in Herat Province, with a capacity of 54 million cubic meters of water. The facility generates 2 MW of electricity and irrigates 13,000 hectares, Afintl.af reports.
At the ceremony, Taliban spokesman Zabihullah Mujahid said that after securing safety and enforcing Sharia, the movement’s priority is now the economy. Energy Minister Abdul Latif Mansoor stressed the project was completed without foreign aid, while Deputy PM Abdul Ghani Baradar called it vital for tackling drought, poverty, and migration.
Construction began in 2011 but was stalled by conflict, resuming in 2024. The dam has sparked protests from Iran, which claims it violates its water rights on the Hari River.
On the same day, Taliban leader Hibatullah Akhundzada ordered removal of the “acting” title from all officials, marking the fourth anniversary of the group’s return to power.
CentralasianLIGHT.org
August 15, 2025