Given the reliance of a significant portion of the population in less developed countries on agricultural activities in rural areas and the critical role of transport infrastructure in enhancing these activities, evaluating the performance of rural roads in achieving sustainable development goals becomes increasingly important. This study aims to analyze the role and performance of rural roads in Dezful County in facilitating the transportation and marketing of agricultural products, with an emphasis on the three pillars of sustainable development: economic, social, and environmental. The research adopts a descriptive–analytical approach, utilizing both library research and field surveys (questionnaire). The statistical population comprises rural agricultural stakeholders in the study area. Data were analyzed using one-sample t-tests and ANOVA in SPSS software.

The statistical findings indicate that, from the perspective of rural residents, the performance of rural roads in the region is rated below average, with an overall mean score of 2.25. This suggests that the existing road infrastructure has not fully met the expectations of rural communities in terms of sustainable development. Moreover, ANOVA results reveal a significant difference in road performance across the three dimensions of sustainable development. The economic dimension, with a mean score of 3.425, demonstrates the highest level of impact and satisfaction among residents, whereas the environmental/physical (2.3252) and social (2.1265) dimensions follow behind. These results highlight the substantial role of rural roads in improving the transportation of agricultural goods, increasing commercial profits, promoting rural trade, and generating employment in the study area. However, deficiencies in the social dimension—such as safety and mobility—and in environmental aspects—such as pollution and natural resource management—require further attention and revised planning.