Workshop on Improving Road Safety Standards in Kyrgyzstan (Technical note)

Seminar on Improving Road Safety Standards in Kyrgyzstan

On September 19, 2024, a seminar was held to address issues of road safety and the adaptation of international road design practices to the conditions of Kyrgyzstan. The event was attended by representatives of:

• The State Enterprise "Design and Survey Institute Kyrgyzdortransproekt";
• The Main Directorate for Road Traffic Safety of the Ministry of Internal Affairs of the Kyrgyz Republic;
• Kyrgyzstandart;
• The State Agency for Architecture, Construction, and Housing under the Cabinet of Ministers of the Kyrgyz Republic.

Key Discussion Points

1. Current Road Safety Issues
   The presentation highlighted major challenges, such as:

   • hazardous overtaking,
   • head-on collisions,
   • underdeveloped road infrastructure.

   These issues were linked to the shortcomings of the current road design standards (GOST and SNIP). Particular emphasis was placed on the need to develop more advanced standards and create safer infrastructure to encourage responsible driver behavior.

2. International Experience as a Model for Improvement
   The seminar discussed best practices from European countries in road design. Key highlights included:

   • the implementation of high-speed roads with divided lanes,
   • improved features for safer overtaking.

   These elements can enhance both road safety and traffic capacity. Additionally, it was proposed to revise some sections of Kyrgyz road standards to align them with GOST R 52289-2019.

3. Proposals for Amending Road Design Standards
   Participants agreed on the necessity of:

   • adjusting the gaps between traffic lanes,
   • introducing modern intersection designs,
   • applying advanced vehicle restraint systems.

   A significant outcome was the recommendation to adopt GOST R 70555-2022, which regulates the design of roundabouts. Currently, Kyrgyzstan lacks a comparable standard, and its introduction would mark substantial progress.

4. Need for Further Discussions
   All participants concurred on the importance of continuing such seminars with the involvement of all stakeholders. Future discussions will focus on adapting international best practices to local conditions and refining existing standards.

Conclusion

The seminar served as a vital platform for discussing key issues in Kyrgyzstan's road infrastructure and exploring solutions based on international experience. The next steps involve detailed development of proposals and specific recommendations for modernizing road design standards.

The organizers extend their gratitude to all participants and look forward to continued productive collaboration.