Overview
The KwaZulu Natal (KZN) Department of Transport is tasked with ensuring a transportation system that guarantees safety, integration and efficiency. This system is paramount to enabling the seamless movement of goods and people, and playing a catalyst in the socio-economic development of the province.
The sprawling road network of KwaZulu Natal, stretching over 8,340 kms of paved roads, was under the spotlight due to challenges posed by manual inspections. The practicality of manual inspections was questioned, given the sheer volume and complexity of the network coupled with a critical shortage of human resources and specialised skills. Undertaking frequent and validated asset data collection under the conventional system was a staggering task, creating an urgent need for a transformative solution like the iPAVe.
Since its initiation in 2016, the iPAVe system has collected an impressive 73,400 kms of data across the KZN province. The data acquired by the iPAVe has streamlined the condition assessment of the road network and ultimately led to the creation of a road network asset condition database, which previously didn’t exist. It has also significantly improved the speed at which data is collected and provided to key stakeholders, ensuring the department has up-to-date pavement data at their fingertips.
iPAVe data now also aids in conducting safety assessments in line with the International Road Assessment Program (iRAP). The dual functionality of the iPAVe, covering both pavement assessments and safety, has seen financial savings for the province, with these savings being channelled into impactful safety initiatives; prominently roller barriers, which have played a pivotal role in safeguarding lives.
The inclusion of the iPAVe platform in KZN DOT’s operations has brought about a paradigm shift. The department’s asset management and road infrastructure delivery have been positively transformed, reflecting in optimised resource allocation and impactful service delivery. As the world steers towards a technologically advanced era, the iPAVe continues to guide infrastructure entities in making informed decisions and providing unparalleled value for money.