Road Maintenance and Transportation Organization Prioritizes Public Transport Fleet Modernization and Road Safety Initiatives
The Deputy Minister and Chairman of the Road Maintenance and Transportation Organization has reaffirmed the modernization of Iran’s public transport fleet as a central priority for the current year. Addressing the Infrastructure and Production Commission of the Expediency Discernment Council, Dr. Akbari underscored ongoing efforts to upgrade intercity public transport—especially buses—in partnership with the Civil Affairs Commission of the Iranian Parliament and the Ministry of Roads and Urban Development.
H.E. Akbari announced the preparation of a comprehensive national transit document, which awaits approval by the Supreme Transit Council. Furthermore, a forthcoming meeting with the First Vice President is anticipated to finalize the country’s road safety operational plan, a pivotal framework defining the responsibilities of the Road Administration and Transport Organization. The implementation of the "Sepahtan" smart traffic monitoring system, aligned with the 7th Development Plan, is also a top priority.
*Addressing black-spots and Expanding Infrastructure*
Dr. Mohammad Teymouri, Deputy for Planning and Resources Development, has detailed ambitious plans to address 880 black-spots within the national road network. In the last year alone, public roads facilitated the transport of 142.5 million passengers and 600 million tons of cargo, with 94% of goods transported via roadways.
Highlighting significant infrastructure advancements, Dr. Teymouri reported the completion of 7,000 kilometers of rural road upgrades, the construction of 2,791 kilometers of new asphalt roads, and extensive improvements at border crossings for Arbaeen pilgrims. He noted that 85% of villages with over 20 families now benefit from asphalted roads, while achieving full coverage demands the construction of 26,500 kilometers of new roads and an estimated 4,000 trillion Rials in funding.
*Enhancing Transit and Strengthening Private Sector Contributions*
Dr. Teymouri stressed the strategic importance of strengthening Iran’s transit sector through the repair and development of 25 border terminals as well as the approval of comprehensive plans for key terminals, including Astara, Rimdan, and Kalaleh-Aghband.
The non-governmental sector has played a vital role, contributing investments worth 60,000 trillion Rials across 2,000 transportation companies, 453,000 freight vehicles, and over 1,100 welfare service complexes. The value of the nation’s 230,000 kilometers of road infrastructure stands at 80,000 trillion Rials, underscoring the sector’s critical role in driving national economic growth and enhancing mobility.
This integrated approach reflects a steadfast commitment to modernizing public transport, addressing road safety challenges, and fostering sustainable infrastructure development to meet the needs of Iran’s growing economy.
