Kabul is experiencing a major wave of infrastructure development in 2025, with several ambitious projects underway to improve urban living standards and drive economic growth. The Kabul Municipality is focusing efforts on road construction, renewable energy, and water management to tackle ongoing issues like traffic congestion and resource shortages.
One of the flagship efforts is the New Kabul City project in Deh Sabz, intended to accommodate up to 3 million residents across 740 square kilometers. Now 25% complete in its first phase, this $6.5 billion initiative has drawn investment from Turkey, Qatar, the UAE, and Iran, and is generating jobs for hundreds of Afghan workers. Locals, such as construction worker Saifullah, emphasize the economic boost, pointing to the project’s role in supporting long-term employment.
Progress is also being made in road infrastructure, with 83.85 kilometers of roads already completed and another 86 kilometers currently in the design phase—funded entirely through internal government budgets. In parallel, energy initiatives are gaining momentum. A 22.75-megawatt solar power project in Naghlu is 70% complete and is expected to deliver electricity to nearly 23,000 households across Kabul, Laghman, and Nangarhar provinces.
Water access and agricultural sustainability are also being addressed through four new water management projects in Zormat district, Paktia, focused on enhancing irrigation and securing water resources for local communities.
Public sentiment, especially on platforms like X (formerly Twitter), reflects growing optimism. Government officials have spoken openly about the vision of transforming Kabul into a globally competitive urban center within the next decade. Still, concerns remain—particularly about funding gaps and the escalating water crisis, as raised by international NGOs.
Despite these challenges, Kabul’s 2025 infrastructure initiatives mark a clear shift toward sustainable urban development and improved quality of life for its citizens.
Published in SouthAsianDesk, July 21st, 2025
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