Riyadh:The Roads General Authority (RGA) has announced that the Saudi Road Code incorporates specific requirements for the design of roadside drainage channels. These guidelines aim to prevent water accumulation and improve traffic safety as part of efforts to enhance the quality of life and raise standards across Saudi Arabia's road network.
According to Saudi Press Agency, the RGA detailed that the requirements include designing channels to effectively collect and convey rainwater while considering the potential for annual flooding. This involves ensuring sufficient capacity to manage rising water levels and prevent recurrent flooding, thereby safeguarding roads and adjacent properties.
The guidelines also emphasize the design of channels to support natural drainage, reduce stagnant water accumulation, and enhance road user safety. Considerations include the shape and location of the channels, as well as providing open spaces for equipment access and maintenance work.
The RGA highlighted that the Saudi Road Code serves as a comprehensive technical reference for all entities involved in the road sector nationwide. This includes ministries, city development authorities, regional municipalities, and local bodies in cities and governorates.
The code provides these entities with essential information, guidelines, technical drawings, procedures, and checklists necessary for planning, designing, constructing, operating, and maintaining various types of roads. It also incorporates environmental and safety considerations to ensure quality, safety, security, economic efficiency, and sustainability.
Furthermore, the RGA reaffirmed its dedication to establishing a unified and transparent legislative and regulatory framework. This framework is designed to ensure integration and compliance through flexible yet robust oversight mechanisms, aligning with the RGA's mandate to oversee the road sector and develop the necessary policies and laws.