Modern technologies in a campaign to promote safe and distinctive roads to enhance safety
Saudi General Authority for Roads announced Safe and Distinguished Roads " campaign. This leap involves the introduction of a suite of modern and advanced technologies being used for the first time. This initiative aims to enhance data accuracy and improve safety and maintenance levels across the Kingdom's extensive road network, aligning with the strategic objectives of the transport and logistics sector.
Strategic context and ongoing efforts
This campaign is of particular importance given the comprehensive development drive underway in the Kingdom, in line with Vision 2030. Road quality and safety are fundamental pillars for enhancing quality of life and supporting the logistics and economic sectors. His Excellency the Minister of Transport and Logistics, Engineer Saleh bin Nasser Al-Jasser, launched this season to emphasize the sector's commitment to implementing the highest international standards. The campaign aims to survey the road network outside urban areas to ensure smooth traffic flow and the safety of road users, which will positively impact the Kingdom's international logistics performance indicators.
Smart control room for data management
One of the most significant technological additions this season is the activation of a sophisticated "control room" that serves as the campaign's electronic brain. This room monitors survey and assessment operations in real time, enabling the analysis of massive amounts of data received from the field. This technology contributes to accelerating decision-making and precisely directing maintenance and repair teams to locations requiring urgent intervention, thus ensuring operational efficiency and rapid response to any issues that could affect road safety.
Precise monitoring techniques without disrupting movement
In pursuit of utmost accuracy, the authority has deployed a mobile digital imaging system. This system is designed to monitor non-paved road elements such as signs, road markings, guardrails, and light poles. This comprehensive survey helps maintain the aesthetic appeal of roads and ensures they are free from visual pollution or potential hazards.
The campaign was also enhanced by a "mobile paint reflectivity measurement" system, a vital technology for nighttime driving safety. This system assesses the visibility of road markings (lines and lanes) and their ability to reflect light to drivers in various weather conditions. A key advantage of this technology is its ability to operate without closing lanes or disrupting traffic flow, thus preventing any congestion for road users during testing.
National cadres and community partnership
The campaign is not limited to the technical aspect alone; it also relies on a qualified workforce, with over 620 members distributed across 61 field teams. These teams include representatives from various government agencies as well as university students, reflecting a spirit of community partnership and a commitment to developing young national talent in the fields of engineering and traffic safety, ultimately aiming for a safer and more sustainable road environment.
