Land Use Management and Urban Land Expansion in Kabul: A Case Study of Rapid Urbanization

Osama Hidayat,Yoshitaka Kajita

doi:10.4236/cus.2019.72009

Abstract

As a response to the challenge of rapid growth of urbanization and lack of reliable data for urban planning and management, especially in the developing countries, this paper evaluates land use change and urban spatial expansion, from 1970’s to 2018, in Kabul city, the capital of Afghanistan, using satellite images, field observation and socioeconomic data. The city is highly representative of Afghanistan’s rapid urbanization process. As the city rapidly expands, there are enormous challenges to the sustainable use of land and resources. The discussion covers the increase in rural-to-urban land conversion, the delineation of urban growth boundaries, urban upgrading, and the investigation of illegal construction. This study considers the aspects of urbanization and land management systems in Afghanistan. Efficient frames are outlined in Kabul for the following elements: governmental self-restraint and policy modification. The results indicated the necessity of appropriate policies and regulations particularly for limiting linear sprawl along the main roads. The conclusion seeks to synthesize land-use interventions into an agenda for Kabul’s sustainable development which can also provide a reference for other cities in Afghanistan.

Highlights

As a response to the challenge of rapid growth of urbanization and lack of reliable data for urban planning and management, especially in the developing countries, this paper evaluates land use change and urban spatial expansion, from 1970’s to 2018, in Kabul city, the capital of Afghanistan, using satellite images, field observation and socioeconomic data
This study considers the aspects of urbanization and land management systems in Afghanistan
Urban redevelopment policy in Kabul is proposed against a backdrop of high-speed urbanization; the main purpose is to save land resources and enhance land use efficiency

Summary

Introduction

The rapid growth of the world’s urbanization, especially in developing countries, is one of the major challenges for governments and planning agencies. Effective governance and planning to achieve a more sustainable urban form are crucial for urban planners and policy makers (Mosamma et al, 2017). Since the establishment of the new government in 2002 by the arrival of collation forces, Afghanistan has entered a phase of high-speed urbanization. Like many other countries in the region, Afghanistan needs to devote much attention to reconstruction and creating townscapes with significant features. Sustainable and efficient townscape can protect living environment, facilitate residential, commercial and other business activities, a city’s economic performance is tied to the quality of land use policy and sustainable development (UN, 2011)

Methods

Findings

Discussion

Conclusion