Fifth Round of National Arterial Road Monitoring Successfully Completed in Iran

Hamzeh Zakeri, Head of the Center for Development of Training, Studies and Artificial Intelligence at the Road Maintenance and Transportation Organization, announced the achievement, stressing the long-term commitment to a knowledge-based approach in road monitoring. Speaking to the media, Dr. Zakeri stated: "The national monitoring program, which has been underway for over a decade, is a pioneering initiative supported by the Road Maintenance and Transportation Organization. This fifth round, completed in May 2025, underscores our dedication to maintaining and improving the country’s vital road infrastructure."

 

A Decade of Innovation in Road Monitoring

Over the past ten years, the monitoring program has employed advanced methodologies, including technical teams equipped with laser mechanized systems and cutting-edge imaging technology. In collaboration with the Soil Mechanics Technical Laboratory and knowledge-based companies, the program adheres to international standards while introducing innovative measures to enhance the efficiency and scope of operations.

Dr. Zakeri also highlighted that the integration of scientific methodologies and systematic analysis into decision-making processes has positioned Iran on par with developed nations. He further noted that the completion of the fifth monitoring phase reflects the country’s internal capabilities, the spirit of teamwork among experts, and the successful application of technology in large-scale operational projects.

"The data collected through these efforts serves as a cornerstone for optimizing resource allocation, monitoring performance, and selecting the most effective improvement strategies for the national road network," Dr. Zakeri added.

 

Key Achievements and Data Integration

The fifth round of monitoring covered 74,000 kilometers of arterial road lanes across the country, with data analysis completed for over 70% of the network. The program gathered vital indicators, including:

• International Roughness Index (IRI)

• Pavement Condition Index (PCI)

• Riding Number (RN)

• Rut Loss (RUT)

• Coarse Pavement Texture (MT)

• Geometric Characteristics of Roads

These metrics, combined with imaging every 10 meters, enable secondary analyses such as road safety assessments, identification of accident hotspots, and advanced planning.

 

Technological Advancements and Artificial Intelligence

Dr. Zakeri highlighted the program’s integration with artificial intelligence to enhance its analytical capabilities. New dashboards developed by knowledge-based teams allow for real-time reporting and comparative analysis, empowering decision-makers with actionable insights.

"The RMTO's investment in technological advancements has laid the foundation for innovative, data-driven methods aligned with international standards," Zakeri said. He further stressed that AI-powered tools, including intelligent interpretation, prediction, and optimization, are being developed to strengthen the monitoring system. These tools are also being integrated with other management systems, such as those for bridges, tunnels and black spots, leveraging the SIMORGH supercomputer to enhance computational speed and data analysis.

 

Iran’s Long-Term Road Infrastructure Vision

In parallel with the national monitoring program, the Iran Roads Selected Sections Program (IRI-LTPP) has been active since October 2023, focusing on 48 selected sections. Utilizing advanced laser measurement equipment, the program aims to develop sophisticated predictive models within the Pavement Management System (PMS). The third round of this program was successfully completed in 2024.

Dr. Zakeri also noted that these initiatives have also created new opportunities in other areas of road infrastructure, such as bridge management, technical build