ASIR: The new Saher system will be launched in Asir region in the near future because it has been tested at a number of locations, according to Brig. Gen. Hanash Abdul Rahman Al-Shihri, Director of the Asir Traffic Department. The “finishing touches” have to be applied to the system, he said. He said the Asir Region Traffic Department carried out an awareness program for motorists prior to launching the traffic surveillance system. Asked how the Saher system could be launched within a few days despite the streets in Asir region having no speed limit signs, Al-Shihri said steps have been taken to resolve this issue. Prior to commencing the Saher system, meetings were held at the Asir Traffic Department to discuss preparations. The discussions resulted in the formation of several teams to determine speed limits on the roads and streets, and for setting up signs, in the governorates of Abha, Khamis Mushayt and Ahad Rufaidah. These areas are where the system would be implemented first. He said they have already started setting up the signs. All the locations will have speed limit signs before the system is operational, he added. About the reasons for the rising traffic accident rates in Asir region, Al-Shihri said this was a concern. He attributed this to traffic officials not monitoring all the roads, the increasing number of vehicles, and mistakes by motorists, which have resulted in the loss of many innocent lives. As to whether solutions have been found for the traffic jams at the Al-Qassabah roundabout at the gateway to Abha Governorate, especially at peak hours, Al-Shihri said they are working with the Asir Region Mayoralty to resolve the situation by rehabilitating the intersection. He said the department is dealing with the congestion on King Abdullah Road, with the construction of the King Abdullah dual carriageway, which went into operation on Nov. 17, 2009. It will be covered by the Saher system. He said there is no provision for traffic offenders to pay fines by installments. He called on motorists to complain if traffic officials take too long to get to the scene of a traffic accident. If motorists do not report the matter, how would the department know about the problem, he asked.
