Riyadh:The Roads General Authority (RGA) has announced substantial progress in its road maintenance projects, with over 6,500 linear meters of expansion joint works on bridges completed. This achievement marks an 86.2% completion rate across 22 projects in various regions of Saudi Arabia, part of the 2026 road maintenance initiatives.

According to Saudi Press Agency, asphalt joint works are nearing full completion at 99.5%. Meanwhile, mechanical expansion joints, with movement ranges from 100 to 200 millimeters, have been fully finished. The completion rate for mechanical joints with movement ranges between 50 to 100 millimeters stands at 87.2%. For those with movement ranges of less than 50 millimeters, over 20% are completed, with 938 meters still under construction, expected to finish by year-end.

The RGA highlighted the importance of maintaining expansion joints to enhance the performance of road and bridge structures. This maintenance accommodates expansion and contraction due to temperature changes and prevents water ingress into structural components.

The authority further explained that maintenance activities include comprehensive field inspections, cleaning, repairs to fastening components and seals, and monitoring for defects that could affect joint performance and asset durability. Regular assessments and inspections of bridges ensure safety and prolong service life, addressing vulnerabilities such as corrosion and deterioration due to harsh weather and traffic loads.

Early detection and repair of structural defects contribute to improved safety, reduced risks affecting traffic flow, and support more effective, cost-efficient maintenance.