Minister of Transport and Infrastructure, Uraloğlu, stated that this year a 725-kilometer rumble strip implementation will be carried out with the aim of preventing run-off-road traffic accidents. Minister of Transport and Infrastructure Abdulkadir Uraloğlu made a statement regarding the nationwide efforts undertaken by the General Directorate of Highways (KGM) to ensure traffic safety. Minister Uraloğlu mentioned that through the Meteorological sensors, variable message signs, and cameras placed at various points with the Intelligent Transportation Systems Centers within the KGM, all data is collected, and road users are instantly informed. He added that they detect moments when meteorological events, environmental conditions, and potential accidents occur through meteorological information stations, cameras, and incident detection applications. They promptly identify the effects of variables like weather events, environmental conditions, and possible accidents. Minister Uraloğlu emphasized that with smart transportation systems, they maximize road safety while preventing unnecessary time and material losses. He stated, “Last year, we made 810 intersections operate in the form of traffic warning signaling management. This year, 120 more intersections will be made traffic warning-enabled. With intelligent transportation systems, we aim to maximize road safety and prevent unnecessary time and material losses.”
Minister Uraloğlu mentioned that within the scope of the efforts to transform traffic signaling systems that operate for a fixed period into traffic warning signaling management systems, last year, 279 intersections, of which 44 are renewals and 235 are new installations, were updated. He said, “Within the scope of the efforts, a total of 103 intersections were transformed into traffic warning signaling management systems. This year, under the transformation of intersections into traffic warning signaling management style, plans are made to transform 70 intersections into traffic warning enabled, and 1,200 synchronized IUGC (Beacon) systems will be established for foggy areas”. Additionally, among our goals are the installation of 17 variable message signs and 10 meteorological information stations in various regions. Rumble strip applications aim to prevent the driver from running off the road due to distraction, drowsiness, or lack of focus, especially during long journeys. The vibration and sound produced as the vehicle tires pass over the rumble strip alert the driver, providing the opportunity to guide the vehicle back into the correct lane. This application is an effective measure in reducing accidents caused by running off the road. It also alerts drivers to be cautious as they approach unexpected road and traffic conditions. Rumble strips become an important supportive element in increasing driving safety, especially during night drives and in restricted visibility weather conditions. Through these bands that alert the driver with vibrations, we aim to prevent accidents caused by distraction and running off the road.” Minister Uraloğlu noted that the implementation of rumble strips on divided roads within the responsibility area of the General Directorate of Highways has been expanded. The continued application aims to reduce accidents occurring especially on the shoulder and roadside. Since 2016, rumble strip applications have been implemented on a 6,126-kilometer road section. The plan is to implement rumble strips on a 725-kilometer section by the year 2025.