The United Nations Human Settlements Programme (UN-Habitat) released “Road Safety Design: Guidelines for Afghan Cities” in 2025. This is a new publication offering a comprehensive framework for designing safe, inclusive, and vibrant streets that prioritize people over vehicles across Afghanistan cities.
Download the report here.
This urban street design manual responds to the unique challenges of Afghan cities and is tailored to the local context. It supports planners, engineers, urban designers, and policymakers in enhancing liveability, promoting sustainable transport, and fostering economic and social activity through improved street design.
Main features
- Core principles of people-centred design
- Practical solutions for diverse urban settings
- Adaptable, resource-sensitive strategies
The manual outlines design standards for key street elements — such as sidewalks, bike lanes, crosswalks, street lighting, vegetation, vending areas, and drainage — and provides clear, context-relevant guidelines. It contains case studies from Afghan cities, highlighting street interventions that have improved mobility for all and prioritized pedestrian safety.
This publication serves as a technical resource to guide the development of more resilient, inclusive, and people-friendly urban environments across Afghanistan.
Reference: https://unhabitat.org/people-friendly-streets-in-afghanistan