Taliban forces in Badakhshan’s Wakhan district are reportedly forcing members of the Ismaili community to provide firewood and fuel for military units stationed in the area, according to four sources cited by Afghanistan International.
The sources, including one Taliban member and three Ismaili Shias, reportedly said Taliban forces require residents to supply heating fuel for two military kandaks stationed in Broghil and Qal’eh Panja. Each unit reportedly consists of four to five platoons.
The alleged demands come as Wakhan faces extremely harsh winter conditions. Temperatures in parts of the remote district can reportedly fall to around minus 30 degrees Celsius, while heavy snowfall can block roads and isolate communities for extended periods.
According to the sources, when firewood deliveries to the military units are delayed or their existing supplies run out, Taliban forces pressure local Ismaili residents to provide additional fuel. The sources further alleged that threats and force are sometimes used to compel families to comply.
Residents who do not have sufficient firewood are reportedly forced to purchase it from other households, placing an additional financial burden on families already living in a difficult and isolated environment.
The allegations highlight concerns over the treatment of the Ismaili community in Wakhan and the impact of military requirements on local residents. The claims could not be independently verified, and further details about the alleged incidents and Taliban orders remain unclear.