A fine of 50,000 riyals for cutting road fences and stray animal incidents
In a decisive move aimed at enhancing traffic safety and saving lives on highways, the General Authority for Roads revealed alarming statistics regarding accidents caused by stray animals, while simultaneously announcing strict punitive measures against those who tamper with road infrastructure.
Shocking statistics and geographical challenges
The authority explained in its latest annual report that the Kingdom’s external roads witnessed 426 traffic accidents caused by stray animals, resulting in tragic outcomes, including the death of 5 people and injuries to 26 others of varying severity.
These figures come in the context of the geographical challenges facing Saudi Arabia, where the highway network stretches across vast expanses of desert and grazing lands. Camels and stray animals have long posed a traditional danger to travelers on these roads, especially at night, making protective fencing the first line of defense for travelers.
Deterrent penalties: 50,000 riyals for fence breakers
In response to the phenomenon of vandalism of public property, which exacerbates these incidents, the authority issued a stern warning, emphasizing that deliberately cutting the protective fence is a serious violation of regulations. The authority imposed a fine of 50,000 riyals on those involved in this act, in addition to obligating the perpetrator to pay for all repair costs.
This tightening comes in light of the direct and serious threat that cutting the fence poses to the safety of road users, as it opens gaps that allow animals to suddenly cross in front of vehicles traveling at high speeds.
Regulatory solutions: A safe mechanism for camel crossing
Recognizing the importance of balancing traffic safety with the needs of camel owners and herders, the authority has established a precise and organized mechanism for camel crossings on single-lane or unfenced roads. This mechanism allows owners to coordinate in advance by contacting the 938 to determine a safe crossing time.
The authority stipulated that the crossing must take place during the day, in a single group, and under the direct supervision of a road monitor who would secure the site with warning cones to ensure everyone's safety. The authority also issued an urgent appeal to camel owners to fulfill their social and legal responsibilities and to educate herders on the necessity of using official crossings.
Advanced infrastructure and the goals of Vision 2030
The authority reviewed its efforts in developing the infrastructure, noting that the road network in the Kingdom currently includes 51 crossings designated for camels , in addition to fencing approximately 3,056 kilometers of highways, to ensure the isolation of animals from vehicle routes.
These efforts directly contribute to achieving the strategic objectives of the roads sector stemming from the Kingdom’s Vision 2030, which aims to reduce the road fatality rate to less than 5 cases per 100,000 people, and to improve the quality of roads in the Kingdom to reach the sixth rank globally, with the network covered by safety factors according to the international “IRAP” classification, which enhances the Kingdom’s position as a global logistics center and preserves human and economic resources.
