Afghanistan’s Ministry of Interior Affairs (MoI) on Monday announced that security measures will be stepped up in Kabul and other provinces during the Eid days as the capital city is witnessing rise violence in the past three weeks. 
 
“Based on the plan, the security agencies and the police forces are on red alert both in the capital city and in the provinces,” MoI spokesman Nusrat Rahimi said at a press conference in Kabul on Monday. 
 
His remarks come amid a sharp increase in violence in the city. At least five civilians were killed and 10 others wounded as their bus was targeted by an IED explosion in Kabul’s Darul Aman Road on Monday afternoon. 

The bus was carrying the employees of the Independent Administrative Reform and Civil Service Commission.

Meanwhile, President Ghani in a meeting of the National Security Council directed the Ministry of Interior Affairs to take required measures for preventing magnetic IED blasts in Kabul and boosting security in the city, the President’s Press Office said in a statement.  

Kabul residents said they expected that the Afghan government and the Taliban would agree on to a ceasefire this Eid but it did not happen. 
 
Despite security threats, Afghans remain defiant and thousands flocking to local markets to purchase new clothes, fruits, and pastries to honor their guests during the Eid celebrations. 
 
“We are here to do some shopping and celebrate Eid,” said Fazel Hussain, a Kabul resident. 
 
“Prices are cheaper compared to recent years. Last year, one kilogram of pistachio was sold for AFs1,200, but now it is about 800,” said Mohammad Wali, a shopkeeper.
 
“We were expecting a ceasefire during the Eid like the previous year. We were expecting reconciliation among those friends who are angry with each other, we would be very happy if there was a partial peace,” said Sayed Rahman, a Kabul resident.