RTA Dubai Plans For Safer Roads

RTA Dubai Plans For Safer Roads. The Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) of Dubai is undertaking a significant initiative to improve road safety and reduce traffic congestion. This plan involves approximately 89 amendments and upgrades across various roads and junctions in Dubai. The proposed changes come as a result of a detailed study conducted by the RTA.

RTA Study And Findings

The RTA’s study revealed two primary concerns:

1. Traffic Jams: 29 sites in Dubai are frequently plagued by traffic congestion.
2. Vehicular Accidents: 60 locations experience regular accidents, often leading to serious injuries or fatalities.

Key Areas of Concern

The study identified several common causes of accidents:

• Collisions with Fixed Objects: Drivers frequently crash into roadside traffic signs or other stationary objects.
• Run-Over Accidents: Pedestrian and vehicle interactions that result in run-overs.
• Traffic Light Violations: Many accidents occur due to drivers running red lights.
• Speeding: Excessive speed is a significant factor in many collisions.

Proposed Amendments And Improvements

To address these issues, the RTA has proposed the following measures:

1. Modifications at 60 Sites: Adjustments to enhance road safety and reduce accident rates at identified locations.
2. Visibility Improvements: Upgrading road signs and markings to increase driver awareness.
3. Traffic Flow Enhancements: Streamlining vehicle movement at junctions to reduce congestion and accidents.
4. Protection of Road Signs: Implementing measures to safeguard road signs and other infrastructure from damage.
5. Traffic Signal Modifications: Adjusting the operation of traffic signals to better manage traffic flow.
6. Radar Installations: Introducing radars to detect and penalize drivers who run red lights.

Pedestrian Safety Measures

In addition to vehicle-related improvements, the RTA plans to:

• Install Pedestrian Crossings: Establish new crossings in high-traffic areas to ensure safer pedestrian movement.
• Prevent Jaywalking: Implement measures to discourage crossing the road outside of designated areas.
• Speed Radar Installations: Place radars at strategic points to monitor and control speeding.

Specific Road Enhancements

Mattar Al Tayer, Director General and Chairman of the Board of Executive Directors of the RTA, highlighted several critical areas:

• Al Ittihad Road: This major road, near the borders of Abu Dhabi and Sharjah, has experienced frequent accidents. The RTA plans to install additional warning signs and enhance lane markings to improve clarity.
• World Trade Centre Roundabout: Known for frequent accidents, this location will see additional exit lanes, more guiding signboards, and improved lane markings.
• Umm Suqeim and Al Qudra Street Junction: Following recurrent accidents, the speed limit at this junction has been set at 80 km/h to enhance safety.

Conclusion

The RTA’s comprehensive plan aims to significantly improve road safety and traffic flow across Dubai. By addressing key problem areas, enhancing visibility, and implementing new traffic management measures, the RTA is committed to making Dubai’s roads safer for all users. These changes reflect a proactive approach to tackling the issues identified in the study and ensuring a smoother, safer driving experience throughout the city.