In Dushanbe, the underpass by the zoo and state university is the only way pedestrians are able to get to these destinations without crossing the busy eight-lane highway above. However, before the renovations the underpass was rarely used, and was closed off at night for security reasons.

Between 2016-2020 the traffic police of Dushanbe recorded at least 5 pedestrian fatalities and 22 serious injuries as a result of numerous pedestrian-vehicle collisions on the road above.

When an underpass is constructed properly and maintained, it can have huge benefits. It segregates pedestrians and other vulnerable road users from fast-moving traffic enabling them to cross large, busy roads with complete safety.

In May 2021, the newly renovated underpass was unveiled by the Dushanbe Mayor’s Office, with local support from Young Generation of Tajikistan. An agreement with Dushanbe authorities has committed them to ensuring the underpass is monitored and cleaned regularly so that it remains an inviting option for people.

Within the first month of opening already many more people were using the underpass including university students, women, families and people with disabilities.

Within the first six months of 2022, 5 pedestrian collisions were still recorded on the road above the underpass. In an attempt to further discourage pedestrians from using the road as a crossing points, local authorities installed metal barriers.