Iran Road Surface and Passability Data for 142,900 km of Arterial Roads

This dataset maps 0.1429 million km of arterial roads across Iran, featuring AI-derived surface types, widths, and passability scores produced by HeiGIT. Using PlanetScope satellite imagery from 2020 and 2024, the data supplements OpenStreetMap (OSM) segments where surface information is missing for over 53% of the network.

Use Cases

• Evaluating logistical constraints for aid delivery using the Humanitarian Passability Index (HPI)
• Identifying infrastructure upgrades by filtering for Road Surface Change from unpaved to paved
• Optimizing transport routes for heavy machinery based on Road Width Class

Strengths

• 89.2% surface prediction accuracy
• 0.1429 million km of road coverage
• Multi-temporal comparison between 2020 and 2024

Limitations

• Excludes minor roads such as residential or service tracks
• AI predictions are subject to model error compared to ground-level surveys
• Geographic focus is limited to the Islamic Republic of Iran

Provenance

Source

HeiGIT (Heidelberg Institute for Geoinformation Technology)

Collection Method

Deep learning analysis of PlanetScope satellite imagery combined with OpenStreetMap vector data.

Time Range

2020 - 2024

Freshness

Last updated March 2026; utilizes satellite imagery from 2020 and 2024.

Geography

Iran (Islamic Republic of)