KABUL – The Taliban government has announced new restrictions on women visiting the joint border market between Afghanistan and Uzbekistan. Women will now be barred from entering without a male guardian, known as a Mahram.
The market, located in Hairatan, Balkh province, is a major trading hub for locals. Many women regularly visit for shopping and essential supplies. However, Taliban security personnel have begun enforcing the new rule strictly.
Eyewitnesses reported that women arriving without a Mahram are being stopped at the entrance. Even those accompanied by men are often asked to show documents proving their Mahram relationship. Men who fail to provide verification are also denied entry.
Local residents claimed that some Taliban security officers treat people harshly while enforcing these restrictions. Many visitors described the treatment as humiliating and stricter than procedures at the Uzbek border.
People traveling to the Hairatan market said they face repeated inspections and questioning. Some women visiting the market are elderly or travel abroad to Uzbekistan and Russia for medical treatment. These new rules have caused difficulties for such individuals.
So far, the Taliban authorities have not issued any official statement clarifying the reasons behind this restriction. Local media continue to report on the impact of these measures on residents and cross-border trade.
Residents expressed frustration, saying the new restrictions have made daily life more challenging. Many traders and shoppers now face delays and intense scrutiny. Some also fear that the rules may affect economic activity at the market.
The Hairatan border market is vital for trade between Afghanistan and Uzbekistan. Analysts say that imposing strict entry rules could disrupt commerce and create hardships for local communities.
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As the Taliban continue to implement these restrictions, both local and international observers are monitoring the situation closely. The enforcement of Mahram rules is expected to remain in place until further notice.
