Terms of Reference for Urban Planning Department

The department's primary objective is to ensure that all buildings, roads, ditches, and other city utilities are designed in accordance with the City Master Plan. To achieve this goal, the department conducts demographic and statistical analysis within Kabul City to inform urban planning decisions. The department's scope and responsibilities encompass a wide range of activities, including valuating residential houses according to rules and regulations, consulting with district-level offices on their master plans of development, and regulating land use for residential and commercial purposes. The department is also responsible for constructing government-owned buildings, preparing comprehensive plans for sewerage, sanitation, and solid waste management, and adopting measures for the protection and creation of urban green spaces. Additionally, the department ensures the implementation of sustainable environmental protection procedures as per the guidelines of the UNEP and NEPA. The Urban Planning Department cooperates with various departments and agencies, including the Land Acquisition, Property Department, Street Department, 22 Districts offices, Publication, Policy and Coordination, and Construction Control Departments, as well as the Ministry of Urban Development. The department reports directly to the Kabul Mayor and Deputy Mayor for Construction and Technical Affairs. The department's responsibilities also include regulating the arbitrary construction of buildings, preventing demolition of buildings at the end of their useful life, and resolving grievances of residents in a just and timely manner. The department's activities are guided by the City Master Plan, which serves as a framework for urban development in Kabul. The plan aims to ensure that the city's growth is sustainable, equitable, and environmentally friendly. The department's efforts are focused on providing basic urban facilities, such as public toilets, footpaths, parks, gardens, and playgrounds, as well as increasing public services, including street lighting, parking lots, bus stops, and public transportation. The department also implements long-range planning for affordable housing to accommodate the needs of the growing city population. The Urban Planning Department plays a critical role in shaping the future of Kabul City, ensuring that its growth is planned and managed in a way that benefits all residents. The department's efforts are focused on creating a livable, sustainable, and environmentally friendly city that meets the needs of its growing population.