Armenia Launches iRAP Road Assessment: Fulfilling a Long-Held Dream for Safer Roads

Armenia is taking a significant step toward safer roads with the launch of the iRAP road assessment program, starting on the M6 corridor. This achievement is the result of years of dedication and collaboration among the Ministry of Territorial Administration and Infrastructure (MTAI), the National Road Safety Council (NRSC), the International Road Assessment Programme (iRAP), WB and the Asian Development Bank (ADB).

A Personal Dream Realised: The iRAP Journey in Armenia

My journey with iRAP began in 2004, when I first saw how a team of professionals had developed a program to help countries assess and improve road safety. Inspired by their work, I dreamed of bringing this transformative approach to Armenia. Although our first attempt to launch the program in Armenia in 2010 was unsuccessful, I am proud to announce that the dream is finally coming true: Armenia will initiate its road assessment program on the M6, with plans to star-rate all major roads by 2029.

The Benefits of Road Assessment and Star Ratings

Implementing road assessment and star rating systems brings substantial benefits:

• Data-Driven Decision Making: Systematic safety evaluations enable authorities to identify and prioritize the most dangerous road segments for improvement.

• Clear and Transparent Benchmarks: The star rating system provides an accessible measure of road safety, allowing policymakers, stakeholders, and the public to track progress.

• Targeted Safety Upgrades: Detailed assessments highlight high-risk areas, supporting the design of effective interventions such as safer intersections, improved pedestrian crossings, and better road markings.

• Enhanced Funding Opportunities: Comprehensive safety data and star ratings meet international standards, making it easier to attract investment and support from donors and development banks.

• Public Engagement: Star ratings foster greater public awareness and empower communities to advocate for safer roads.

About iRAP: A Global Force for Safer Roads

The International Road Assessment Programme (iRAP) is a leading global non-profit dedicated to saving lives by eliminating high-risk roads. iRAP partners with governments, agencies, and road authorities worldwide to assess road networks, recommend evidence-based safety improvements, and monitor progress using its internationally recognised star rating system.

iRAP’s work has led to significant reductions in road deaths and serious injuries in many countries, setting a global standard for road safety assessment and improvement.

A Collaborative Effort for Armenia’s Future

The successful launch of Armenia’s iRAP road assessment program is a testament to the collaborative efforts of MTAI, the National Road Safety Council, iRAP, ADB, and local road safety advocates. By committing to assess and star-rate all roads by 2029, Armenia is demonstrating its dedication to saving lives and building a safer transport future for every road user.

This initiative is not just a technical milestone—it is the fulfilment of a long-held personal dream to make Armenia’s roads safer, more accessible, and more secure for all.

Author

P. Shahinyan