Afghanistan one year on: People in survival mode since Taliban takeover – UN & More Latest News Here – Up Jobs

I was in the BBC bureau earlier than usual that morning, and in some ways it felt like a normal news day – assigning stories, chatting with colleagues.

But by mid-morning, the atmosphere began to change as it became clear the government was indeed about to fall.

I received a call from my son, who worked in the finance ministry, and he told me his colleagues were fleeing the office – there were rumours the Taliban had reached the gates of Kabul.

When I left the BBC building a short time later – a place I had worked for so many years – I had a sense I might never return.

By the time I got home, dozens of scenarios were playing through my mind about how my family’s life might be about to change.

Two days later, at midnight, we were offered places on an evacuation flight and asked to provide a list of dependents under 18 who could join us.

The deadline was tight but the decision felt enormous – leave our homeland and be forced into exile, or stay, and not know what might happen.

When I used to travel abroad, it was always a happy moment, but this time, everyone was in pieces. The family elders were the most upset, saying it could be our last meeting. But saying goodbye was the only option.

Reaching the airport was tremendously difficult, and getting through the desperate crowds of thousands felt extremely dangerous.

My elder son could not join us, being over 18, which has not been easy. But I am so glad my younger daughters have been able to continue their education in the UK.

Starting from scratch in a new society and country is not easy, but knowing that they have a better future gives us hope.