In a decisive move aimed at enhancing road safety on the national road network, the General Authority for Roads has revealed alarming statistics regarding traffic accidents caused by stray animals entering road boundaries outside urban areas. These statistics are accompanied by strong warnings and strict penalties for tampering with public property, specifically the phenomenon of cutting protective fencing.
Background of the challenge: Geography and road safety
The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia boasts a vast road network connecting its far-flung cities and provinces, with significant stretches traversing desert regions and natural grazing lands. The presence of stray animals, particularly camels, has long posed a major challenge to the safety of highway users. Physically, collisions with stray camels are among the most dangerous types of traffic accidents due to the animals' large size and high center of gravity, often resulting in severe damage to vehicles and a direct threat to the lives of passengers. This underscores the importance of protective fencing as a first line of defense, separating grazing areas from highways.
Accident statistics and deterrent penalties
426 traffic accidents occurred on highways directly caused by stray animals. These unfortunate incidents resulted in the deaths of 5 people and injuries to 26 others, some of them serious. These figures are not mere statistics, but a vital indicator that necessitates concerted efforts between official bodies and members of the community.
In an effort to deter vandalism, the authority issued a strong warning against tampering with roadside fencing, emphasizing that deliberately cutting it constitutes a serious violation of regulations. The authority announced a fine of 50,000 riyals for anyone found to have cut the fencing, in addition to requiring the offender to pay for all damages incurred. This strict measure aims to protect lives and public property and ensure the sustainability of road infrastructure.
Safe crossing mechanism and infrastructure
Recognizing the need for camel owners to move between grazing areas, the authority has established a precise and organized mechanism for camel crossings on single or unfenced roads. This mechanism allows owners to coordinate in advance via the "938" call center to determine a safe crossing time, stipulating that it must be done during daylight hours, in one group, and under the direct supervision of a road monitor who is responsible for securing the site with warning cones to ensure everyone's safety.
Regarding infrastructure, the Authority reviewed its ongoing efforts, noting that the Kingdom’s road network currently includes 51 crossings designated for camels (tunnels or bridges), in addition to fencing approximately 3,056 kilometers of highways, to ensure the isolation of animals from vehicle routes and reduce the likelihood of sudden accidents.
Vision 2030 targets and traffic safety
These measures are aligned with the Kingdom's strategic directions, as the General Authority for Roads strives to achieve the strategic objectives of the roads sector stemming from Saudi Vision 2030. A key objective is to reduce the road fatality rate to less than 5 deaths per 100,000 people, a rate comparable to that of countries with advanced road safety standards. The Authority also aims to improve road quality to reach sixth place globally by 2030, ensuring the network meets international IRAP safety standards. This will enhance the efficiency of logistics and support the Kingdom's tourism and economic sectors.
