RIYADH, Saudi Arabia, Nov 4: Minister of Public Works Dr. Noura Al-Mashaan underscored the importance of conducting research and studies to enhance road quality, reduce costs, and save time, speaking yesterday at the "Road Safety and Sustainability Conference 2024" in Riyadh. Organized by Saudi Arabia's General Authority for Roads in collaboration with the International Road Federation, the conference focused on innovative solutions for road safety and sustainability.

In a ministerial session titled “Road Safety: Innovation and Lessons Learned,” Al-Mashaan announced that Kuwait had signed a contract in October for comprehensive maintenance of all roads, including expressways and internal roads. She acknowledged various challenges, noting that some have been addressed while others are still under review.

One major issue, Al-Mashaan pointed out, is the coordination of data on road safety between multiple agencies, such as the Ministry of Interior, the Municipality, and the Ministry of Public Works. To address this, a centralized database has been established through the General Department of Civil Information, integrating data from all relevant bodies. Al-Mashaan explained that Kuwait’s digital temporal and spatial map was used to compile this data, which will serve as a tool for analyzing information to improve road safety.

The Ministry of Public Works’ government center is conducting studies focused on improving road quality, with a particular emphasis on sustainability. This includes using rubber asphalt and recycling materials to reduce carbon emissions while cutting costs and conserving time.

Saudi Arabia’s Minister of Transport and Logistics, Eng. Saleh Al-Jasser, delivered the conference’s opening address, highlighting Saudi Arabia’s advances in road safety. Al-Jasser noted the implementation of scientific innovations, such as road cooling and rubberized roads, which have propelled Saudi Arabia to fourth place in the G20’s road quality index. He added that Saudi Arabia has achieved a nearly 50% reduction in road fatalities, surpassing the targets set by the National Strategy for Transport and Logistics.

The road network in Saudi Arabia, Al-Jasser said, ranks first globally in connectivity, facilitating secure and sustainable transport for people and goods. He reaffirmed Saudi Arabia’s commitment to the highest standards of road safety.

Eng. Abdullah Al-Muqbil, Honorary President of the International Road Federation, remarked that modern technologies have been leveraged to make roads safer, more sustainable, and more efficient worldwide. He emphasized that these technologies are essential for road maintenance, enhancing safety, and ensuring sustainability.

The two-day conference is hosting over 1,000 professionals and experts in transport and infrastructure from more than 50 countries. Discussions will focus on sustainable transport solutions that aim to reduce traffic accidents and environmental emissions.

5 key initiatives for road safety and sustainability:

Implement strict measures to enhance road quality

Repair both internal and external roads

Optimize costs and adhere to project timelines

Employ advanced technologies to prevent paving defects