A guide to safe roads in Ramadan: An initiative to promote road safety
The General Authority for Roads in Saudi Arabia announced the launch of the “Safe Roads Guide for Ramadan” as part of its ongoing efforts to enhance road safety and raise awareness among road users during the holy month. This initiative is a proactive step to address the specific traffic challenges that arise during Ramadan, aiming to ensure the safety of citizens, residents, and visitors, and to achieve the highest safety standards on the Kingdom’s road network.
General context and importance of the initiative during Ramadan
The month of Ramadan witnesses significant changes in traffic patterns, with congestion increasing considerably during peak hours, especially before Iftar, as many rush home. Traffic also picks up at night for Taraweeh prayers, social visits, and shopping. These conditions, sometimes compounded by fatigue and reduced concentration among some drivers due to fasting, increase the risk of traffic accidents. Therefore, this guide is crucial as an educational tool to guide drivers toward safe and responsible driving practices.
Guide contents and objectives
The authority explained that the guide includes a comprehensive set of practical tips and guidelines, including the importance of planning trips in advance to avoid speeding, and the necessity of getting sufficient rest to avoid driving while fatigued. The guide also focuses on explaining the meanings of road signs and warnings, and urges adherence to speed limits, maintaining a safe following distance, and avoiding the use of mobile phones while driving. The guide aims to empower drivers to make sound decisions that contribute to protecting their lives and the lives of others.
The initiative's connection to Saudi Vision 2030
This initiative aligns directly with the objectives of the National Transport and Logistics Strategy, stemming from Saudi Vision 2030. The Kingdom aims to elevate its road sector and rank it among the world's best in terms of quality and safety. The General Authority for Roads, tasked with regulating and developing this vital sector, is working towards the ambitious goal of reducing the traffic fatality rate to less than 5 deaths per 100,000 people by 2030 and achieving sixth place globally in the road quality index.
Local and international impact
Locally, these campaigns contribute to enhancing quality of life by making roads safer and more efficient. Internationally, the initiative is particularly important given the influx of millions of pilgrims and visitors to Mecca and Medina during Ramadan. Providing a safe traffic environment for them reflects the Kingdom's commitment to the safety of pilgrims, reinforces its position as a leading destination for religious tourism, and sets a benchmark for traffic safety management during peak seasons.
