Second Lane of Herat–Islam Qala Highway to Be Built Soon

DID Press: Ministry of Public Works of the Taliban has announced that construction of a second carriageway on the Herat–Islam Qala highway will begin soon, following approval by the leadership and completion of administrative procedures.

The ministry said the project has been authorized in exchange for the establishment of a toll plaza along the route, allowing the initiative to move into its implementation phase.

The Herat–Islam Qala highway, which is approximately 120 kilometers long, is one of Afghanistan’s most important transit corridors. It handles hundreds of freight and passenger vehicles daily, serving as a key trade link between Afghanistan and neighboring Iran.

Officials say the addition of a second lane will reduce traffic congestion, improve road safety, decrease accident risks, and accelerate the movement of commercial goods along the route.

Transport experts argue that the project could significantly enhance logistics efficiency, lower transportation costs, and strengthen Afghanistan’s role in regional trade corridors.

The development is also expected to ease pressure on the existing highway infrastructure and support broader efforts to upgrade transport networks in western Afghanistan.