8am: Mohammad Nader, one of the cave dwellers near the Western Buddha (Salsaal), shares his perspective: “During the republic era, the caves around us were nearly empty. Some deserving individuals were provided shelter, and others who could afford to rent homes were evacuated from the caves after identification by a government committee.” He further adds that with the Taliban’s control, a significant number, reaching hundreds of families, have sought refuge in the caves again. All the caves that were previously vacated are now occupied once more. Click here to read more (external link).