The United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) in Afghanistan, together with humanitarian partners, has established a temporary water supply system in Nuristan province to provide safe drinking water to communities affected by recent floods.
UNICEF said on Monday, August 3, that the emergency system has a storage capacity of 60,000 litres and will provide clean drinking water for approximately 2,000 people in flood-affected areas of the eastern provinces of Afghanistan.
The UN agency said recent floods have affected several parts of eastern Afghanistan, damaging local infrastructure and creating urgent humanitarian needs for vulnerable communities.
UNICEF said access to safe drinking water becomes especially important after disasters because damaged water systems and contaminated sources can increase the risk of waterborne diseases. Children and families living in affected areas are among those most vulnerable to health risks caused by unsafe water.
The temporary water supply system is part of broader humanitarian efforts to support communities struggling with the impact of flooding. Floods in Afghanistan regularly damage homes, roads, farmland and essential infrastructure, leaving many residents reliant on emergency assistance.
Nuristan, a mountainous and remote province, faces additional challenges during disaster recovery because difficult terrain and limited infrastructure can slow the delivery of aid and restoration of basic services. Damage to water networks, sanitation facilities and transport routes can leave communities without essential support for extended periods.
Afghanistan has experienced repeated climate-related disasters in recent years, including severe flooding, prolonged droughts and extreme weather events. Humanitarian agencies have warned that increasing climate pressures are adding to the country’s existing challenges, including economic hardship, food insecurity and limited access to healthcare and other essential services.
UNICEF has continued humanitarian operations across Afghanistan, focusing on clean water, sanitation, health, nutrition and child protection. The organization has emphasized that maintaining access to basic services remains essential, particularly for children and families affected by emergencies.
The latest intervention in Nuristan provides an immediate response to flood-related needs while authorities and humanitarian partners consider longer-term solutions for restoring damaged infrastructure.
