A brief overview of infrastructure projects in Kabul City

By: Amanullah Hanifi

Kabul City boasts a larger population than all other provinces in the country, as is often the case with capital cities around the world. Typically, the central city of a nation enjoys a substantial population and abundant amenities across various aspects of life. Kabul, with its significantly higher population compared to other provinces in Afghanistan, holds the status of being a prime investment destination due to the multitude of opportunities it offers, including convenient access to services, educational facilities, and business prospects. Recognizing the strategic significance of Kabul's geographical location and the enthusiastic interest of numerous investors seeking government support, the Islamic Emirate of Afghanistan has dedicated special attention to the city. Particularly, the Office of the Deputy Prime Minister for Economic Affairs of the Islamic Emirate warmly welcomes investment requests from domestic entrepreneurs and ensures comprehensive support for investments throughout Afghanistan, with a specific focus on Kabul City. Such collaborative efforts aim to foster economic growth, and the Islamic Emirate is committed to facilitating cooperation in all sectors. Encouragingly, with the provision of investment opportunities and the supportive environment fostered by the Islamic Emirate, numerous domestic investors have invested hundreds of millions of Afghanis in various parts of Kabul City. Notably, the Gulbahar Plaza project, being undertaken by the private sector in the 9th zone of Kabul City, deserves mention. This project encompasses hundreds of residential units and commercial establishments, with an investment of $70 million. Its completion is anticipated within three years, promising substantial employment opportunities for thousands of citizens and catalyzing transformative changes within the business sector. In addition to private sector initiatives, the government has launched several projects to stimulate employment, enhance citizen amenities, and promote the overall development of Kabul City. Among these projects is the inauguration of the second part of the Khairkhana-Kotal Road, which serves the primary objective of alleviating congestion in Kabul City and facilitating smooth transit operations. The second phase of the Khairkhana-Kotal Road spans 3,710 meters in length and measures 27 meters in width. It features 7,850 meters of concrete canals and incorporates 11 bus stops. The project, costing 370 million Afghanis, is financed through the domestic revenue of Kabul Municipality and has generated employment opportunities for hundreds of individuals. To regulate the urban landscape of Kabul City and implement the urban plan, Mullah Abdul Ghani Baradar Akhund, the Deputy Prime Minister for Economic Affairs, recently inaugurated five major projects in different parts of the city. Of particular significance is the opening of the Kabul north-west connecting road, spanning 7.5 kilometers in length and 30 meters in width. This project carries a price tag of 530 million Afghanis, also financed through internal revenue sources of Kabul Municipality. Upon completion within eighteen months, this road will directly link the northern provinces of the country with the Kabul-Herat highway, significantly enhancing regional connectivity. The successful execution of these projects will lay the groundwork for the economic growth and standardization of Kabul City while contributing to improved traffic flow patterns. The Islamic Emirate of Afghanistan regards it as its responsibility to develop the country, create favorable conditions for its citizens, and provide abundant employment opportunities. Tirelessly pursuing these objectives, the Islamic Emirate plans to initiate major road construction, expand the railway network, and undertake other significant infrastructure projects in various provinces, in addition to Kabul City, to foster national economic stability. Through the development of railway networks, Afghanistan will emerge as a vital connecting hub between South and Central Asia.