Afghan taxi drivers are playing music in their vehicles despite a Taliban ban on non-religious and non-patriotic songs, risking enforcement action by the morality police.
Since the Taliban returned to power in 2021, music has been heavily restricted across Afghanistan. Only religious or patriotic songs approved by Taliban authorities are permitted. The broader soundscape of the country has been transformed; music that once flowed constantly from restaurants, cafés, and shops in the capital Kabul has been silenced over the past five years.
Taxi drivers including one identified as Roeen have begun playing Afghan folk music, pop, and regional songs in their cabs. When they suspect the presence of security forces or approach checkpoints, drivers quickly lower the volume or turn off the music entirely to avoid confrontation with authorities.
"In each checkpoint that we pass, we lower the volume of the music or even turn it off completely so that I don't have problems with them," Roeen said, disclosing only his first name.
The drivers operate in a precarious position, balancing their desire to play music against the threat of punishment. The morality police enforce the Taliban's cultural restrictions, creating an environment where drivers must remain vigilant during their routes through the city and at security checkpoints.