The Salang Tunnel fire unfolded in a crucial transportation route through the Afghan mountains, connecting the northern and southern parts of the country. On that day, the tunnel was bustling with vehicles, mainly buses and trucks, filled with civilians and travelers. Weather conditions were severe; heavy snow had fallen, limiting visibility and creating treacherous driving conditions. It was during this environmentally challenging situation that a fire erupted, believed to have been sparked by an explosion caused by a vehicle collision. As panic set in, the fire spread rapidly throughout the tunnel, engulfing vehicles and trapping countless individuals. Rescue operations were hindered not only by the fire but also by heavy snowfall, which made access to the tunnel nearly impossible for rescue teams. Many victims succumbed to smoke inhalation and the intense heat, while others were caught in the chaos of trying to escape. Local authorities and military units attempted to coordinate rescue efforts, but communication breakdowns compounded the challenges. The tragedy highlighted significant issues around safety in transportation infrastructure and the need for improved emergency response mechanisms in Afghanistan, particularly during the ongoing socio-political turmoil.International media coverage brought attention to the dire conditions in Afghanistan, as it was amid a civil war and the fallout from the Soviet invasion. The event led to widespread outrage and mourning within the country, as families lost loved ones in such a catastrophic manner. It also generated discussions about road safety and emergency preparedness in tunnel design, especially in mountainous regions prone to natural and man-made disasters.