Taliban Approves Water Diversion from Kunar River

Afghanistan’s Taliban administration has approved plans to divert water from the Kunar (Chitral) River to the Darunta Dam in Nangarhar province, triggering concerns in Pakistan about reduced downstream flows from the shared river system. The move could affect irrigation, drinking water supply, and hydropower potential in Pakistan’s Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province.

About the Kunar River

A major transboundary Himalayan river, known as the Chitral River in Pakistan and the Kunar River in Afghanistan. It forms an important part of the Indus Basin and supports agriculture, water supply, and energy needs.

Origin:

• Source: Chiantar Glacier, Hindu Kush Mountains
• Location: Northern Chitral region, Pakistan

Course:

• Begins as the Chitral/Mastuj River in Pakistan
• Enters Afghanistan at Arandu, becomes Kunar River
• Flows through Kunar & Nangarhar provinces
• Joins the Kabul River near Jalalabad
• Kabul River re-enters Pakistan
• Kabul merges with the Indus River near Attock

Countries involved:

Pakistan → Afghanistan → Pakistan (via Kabul–Indus system)

Major Tributaries:

• Pech River (significant tributary)
• Lotkoh River

River Hierarchy:

Kunar River → Kabul River → Indus River