Amman, May 11 (Petra) – Minister of Public Works and Housing Maher Abu Samen warned on Sunday that persistent attacks on Jordan’s road infrastructure are costing the public treasury over JD3 million annually, with an additional JD1.5 million spent on preventative measures.

In a press statement, Abu Samen described the growing frequency of theft and vandalism targeting lighting systems, metal safety barriers, and traffic signs as a serious threat requiring strict enforcement measures and legislative reforms. He revealed that over 300 such incidents are recorded each year, with materials often stolen for scrap or illegal electricity generation.

“These attacks are not only damaging the infrastructure, but they also compromise public safety,” Abu Samen said, emphasizing that the absence of lighting increases the risk of night-time accidents, while the removal of traffic signs confuses drivers, especially in hazardous or construction zones. He added that the theft or damage of safety barriers designed to prevent vehicles from veering off the road greatly increases the risk of serious accidents.

The ministry is currently conducting a technical and legal review to propose legislative amendments and harsher penalties. Preventative steps already underway include constructing protective rooms for electrical transformers, installing surveillance cameras in high-risk areas, and enhancing field patrols.

Abu Samen called for active community involvement in reporting suspicious activity and safeguarding public assets, stressing that preserving infrastructure is a shared national responsibility.

The Cabinet recently adopted a set of recommendations to combat infrastructure attacks, including strict enforcement of Roads Law No. (24) of 1986 and bolstering monitoring by administrative governors and relevant agencies.

//Petra// AO
11/05/2025 16:12:42