Thimphu, Bhutan — 16 April 2026

The Bhutan iRAP Star Ratings and Practical Roadside Hazards Workshop has concluded in Thimphu, marking the in-person phase of an ongoing training program that began with several weeks of online modules and technical sessions. Delivered by the Bhutan Ministry of Infrastructure and Transport in partnership with the Asian Development Bank (ADB), the International Road Assessment Programme, and the Asia-Pacific Road Safety Observatory (APRSO), the program brought together officials from the Department of Surface Transport, Bhutan Construction and Transport Authority, and Thimphu Thromde. 

The three-day workshop combined classroom learning, interactive sessions, group work, and site visits, enabling participants to apply iRAP Star Ratings and practical roadside hazard assessments in real-world settings. A key focus was managing road safety risks in mountainous terrain, including identifying high-risk locations and appropriate treatments such as roadside barriers and safer road design. Participants applied their skills through field assessments along key corridors, such as Thimphu–Chunzom Highway to Paro, the Thimphu–Dochula Highway, and the Babesa Expressway, where they conducted preliminary roadside hazard assessments and measured risk using iRAP methodologies. 

The workshop forms part of the broader iRAP accreditation pathway, with participants expected to complete the full program and achieve accreditation in the methodology. Following the training, APRSO and ADB will continue working with the Bhutan government to identify priority locations for crash barriers to help reduce road traffic fatalities and injuries.