Road infrastructure risk assessment for the UiTM main campus environment using the International Road Assessment Programme (iRAP) approach (iRAP@UiTMCampus)

This study addressed the pressing issue of road traffic accidents, which claimed over 1.3 million lives annually and disproportionately affected low- and middle-income countries (LMICs), where 93% of fatalities occurred despite representing only 60% of global vehicles. Aligned with the United Nation’s Decade of Action for Road Safety 2021-2030, the research focused on Universiti Teknologi MARA (UiTM) Shah Alam, a high-traffic academic hub, to evaluate road infrastructure risks for diverse users. The International Road Assessment Programme (iRAP) methodology was employed, involving comprehensive road surveys, speed studies, and structured coding validated via iRAP’s ViDA platform. Results showed that compliance with posted speed limits yielded an average 5-star safety rating, while observed operating speeds reduced ratings to between 3 and 5 stars. Strategic interventions, such as optimising pedestrian crossings and increasing roadside severity distances, significantly improved average ratings to 4-5 stars across all user groups. Benefit-cost analyses identified high-impact countermeasures including pedestrian facility, street lighting, and sidewalks. These measures aligned with iRAP’s Star Ratings and Safer Roads Investment Plans, addressing data limitations common in LMICs. The study’s outcomes enhanced campus safety, guided infrastructure planning, and supported global road safety targets, offering a replicable model for institutional campuses in Malaysia and beyond.