Review of Afghanistan developments
Dasht-e-Barchi, situated in the 13th district of Kabul, ranks among the most densely populated regions of the Afghan capital, housing an estimated population of nearly two million individuals. The swift increase in population and the proliferation of unauthorized construction in this area over the last twenty years have led to significant challenges in road development and urban services. Nevertheless, in the past four years, Dasht-e-Barchi has experienced transformations that, while still inadequate, indicate a new direction towards enhancing the urban environment.
The narrow road of Dasht-e-Barchi for a population of two million
For many years, a single narrow road separated Dasht-e-Barchi into two unequal sections. This route, which lacked the traffic capacity to accommodate the needs of the large population, had effectively become a traffic dead end. During the republican era, a plan was formulated to improve the roads in Dasht-e-Barchi; however, it was never executed due to various factors, including the conflicting interests of powerful individuals. With the Taliban in control of Afghanistan and the dismantling of power factions, the execution of this plan was prioritized by the Kabul Municipality. Consequently, the construction of three roads running north to south at the intersection of the main road commenced, and some of these roads have now been completed and are operational.
From the viewpoint of the inhabitants of Dasht-e-Barchi, this degree of advancement has succeeded in alleviating some of the significant traffic burden and facilitating travel between various regions. There is optimism that the finalization of these road projects will address the traffic dilemma in western Kabul.
Parallel plan with the old Dasht-e-Barchi road
On the other hand, the master plan for Kabul city anticipates the development of a new road that will run parallel to the existing Dasht-e-Barchi road. Should this road be built, it has the potential to significantly alleviate traffic congestion and alter the traffic dynamics across the western part of Kabul. This initiative is not merely crucial for improving traffic flow; it can also lay the groundwork for investment opportunities and economic development in the Dasht-e-Barchi area.
Improvement of unplanned areas
Dasht-e-Barchi is among the largest unplanned regions in Kabul, primarily due to the historical absence of effective urban management. In recent years, the Kabul Municipality has made efforts to address this issue by paving the alleys and back alleys. This task, which may appear straightforward, has significantly improved the daily lives of residents. Navigating the muddy and uneven pathways of Dasht-e-Barchi, particularly during the rainy season, was both challenging and costly. Currently, many of these routes have been surfaced, eliminating the mud and difficulties associated with the rainy season.
Transformation in the cleaning system
One of the enduring issues faced by Dasht-e-Barchi has been the buildup of waste in the alleyways; however, in recent years, the urban sanitation system has experienced considerable improvements. By delegating the task of waste collection to private firms, the Kabul Municipality has successfully altered this trend and revitalized the appearance of Dasht-e-Barchi.
The maintenance of waterways (streams) is conducted on a regular basis, which has significantly contributed to the reduction of pollution and the prevention of disease transmission.
Organizing vendors in Dasht-e-Barchi
Another issue in Kabul, particularly in Dasht-e-Barchi, was the increase of roadside vendors. The chaotic presence of these vendors interfered with the movement of both pedestrians and vehicles. In response to this, steps have been implemented to manage the situation, resulting in the relocation of numerous vendors to designated areas.
The process of concreting and cleaning the alleys in Dasht-e-Barchi has significantly contributed to transforming the appearance of western Kabul.
Read more
The Impact of Urban Development in Afghanistan
Water crisis in Kabul: causes and consequences
Analysis and future outlook
These initiatives demonstrate that the Kabul Municipality has executed its development strategies across the city, particularly in highly populated regions, during the last four years. While these endeavors have not fully addressed the requirements of a two million-resident area such as Dasht-e-Barchi, they signify a progressive shift in urban governance.
Maintaining this trend necessitates financial stability, public engagement, and collaboration among different institutions. If not, incomplete and unfinished projects will not only fail to address the issue but will also create additional problems.
Nonetheless, recent experiences indicate that enhancing urban services in Kabul is achievable. The decrease in traffic on certain roads, the tidiness of the alleys, and the alterations in the city’s appearance have instilled new hope among the residents. Should the Kabul City Master Plan be executed in its entirety, it is anticipated that in the near future, Dasht-e-Barchi and comparable regions will evolve from a congested and disorderly environment into a well-organized and clean area.
