HIGHWAY MAINTENANCE

closed

The proposed project is designed to assist the Ministry of Public Works in time to assume responsibility for effectively maintaining the whole of Afghanistan's highway network. In view of the considerable difficulties that are likely to be encountered before this ambitious objective can be reached, a pilot area and project has been selected which is expected to have a demonstration effect for maintenance operations in the country as a whole over the four year project period. The UNDP grant will finance the stationing of a team of consultants in Afghanistan for four years. The team is expected to provide guidance and advice to the Ministry of Public Works on the reorganization of the Road Maintenance Directorate, and the implementation of modern highway maintenance practices for all types of public roads. At first road maintenance will be organized for the Eastern Region of the country, as it has the highest road and traffic density, and with Kabul at its center it offers the best opportunity for demonstration purposes. The proceeds of the credit will be used to finance imports of maintenance equipment, tools, spare parts and materials such as steel and bitumen which are urgently needed for road maintenance in the Eastern Region and for some primary highways in other regions.