Riyadh: The Roads General Authority (RGA) clarified that the Saudi Road Code mandates the development of periodic traffic plans every five years to support urban growth and regulate traffic movement. The aim is to enhance traffic safety and improve the quality of life in the Kingdom.

According to Saudi Press Agency, the authority stated that the Saudi Road Code requires road-owning entities to develop these plans in accordance with established standards. Plans involve studying traffic volumes at intersections, identifying parking and public transport needs, forecasting current and future traffic movements, regulating speeds, and providing facilities for transport and emergency vehicles.

The Saudi Road Code is a comprehensive reference for all road-related entities, including ministries, development authorities, and municipalities. It provides essential information for road planning, design, implementation, and maintenance while considering environmental impacts and autonomous vehicle requirements. The code also includes guidelines, procedures, and audit checklists to ensure quality, safety, economic efficiency, and sustainability.

Initially a guidance document, the code’s application was activated for all government entities at the start of this year, with private entities following mid-year. This initiative supports the road sector program’s goals of safety, quality, and traffic density, aiming for a top global ranking in road quality by 2030.