VIDEO // Republic of Moldova launches smart transport reform in line with EU standards

The implementation of Intelligent Transport Systems in the Republic of Moldova and alignment with European Union standards were the main topics of a press conference held today by Deputy Prime Minister, Minister of Infrastructure and Regional Development (MIDR) Vladimir Bolea and Director of the Transport Community Matej Zakonjšek.

According to the Deputy Prime Minister, the Strategy on Intelligent Transport Systems is a first for the Republic of Moldova and will be implemented gradually until 2040. The document provides for the integration of digital technologies into traffic and road infrastructure management, which will require the transposition of a European directive and seven implementing regulations.

“These systems will allow drivers to access real-time information about traffic and weather conditions through digital applications. At the same time, they will help reduce travel time by up to 25% in urban areas and on main corridors by optimizing traffic lights and managing traffic flows. For drivers, real-time information about traffic, weather conditions and all these elements will be available once we complete the implementation process in this segment. All data will be available to drivers on their phones, in the form of apps,” said Vladimir Bolea.

The official also emphasized that the strategy will enhance road safety through automatic hazard detection systems and advanced video monitoring, referring as well to the current use of surveillance cameras on national roads.

“Everything that means artificial intelligence, everything that means digitalization processes, leads to ensuring safety for road passengers,” Bolea stated.

At the same time, intelligent systems will allow real-time monitoring of the condition of infrastructure, roads and bridges, enabling preventive interventions and optimizing budget expenditures.

Implementation of the strategy will begin this year, once the legislative framework is approved, and the first pilot projects will be carried out on the Chișinău–Leușeni corridor and on the main access arteries into the capital. In addition, through European financing mechanisms such as the Connecting Europe Facility (CEF) program, the Republic of Moldova will benefit from major investments. These include the rehabilitation and electrification of the first railway sections and the interconnection of Chișinău International Airport with the European rail and road network. In his statements, the Deputy Prime Minister highlighted that the objective of the Ministry of Infrastructure and Regional Development of the Republic of Moldova is to transpose by 2027 a total of 270 pieces of European legislation considered essential for economic development and the modernization of the transport sector.

For his part, Matej Zakonjšek noted that the cooperation relationship between the Republic of Moldova and the Transport Community is continuously strengthening and that the results are already being felt.

“Our cooperation is strong and becoming ever more consolidated, and most importantly, the effects of this cooperation are felt by the citizens. I welcome the efforts of the Republic of Moldova, as the focus on connected, predictable and safe transport eliminates the differences in standards between Moldova and EU member states, facilitating trade, tourism and labor mobility,” said Director of the Transport Community.

A consortium of expert consultants contributed to the drafting of the strategic document, stressing that the strategy represents a complete national architecture. The transition to digital transport requires the transposition of more than 40 European legislative acts and regulations. At the same time, the strategy proposes the creation of a national body dedicated to the coordination and management of Intelligent Transport Systems, as well as a plan for developing the human capital needed to operate these new technologies. Urban Scope, the lead consultant within the consortium that developed the strategy, is a regional leader in urban development and smart mobility. With a team of over 60 dedicated specialists, the company has an extensive portfolio in strategic planning, supporting more than 30 local public administrations.

To date, Urban Scope’s expertise has helped attract approximately 3 billion euros in European funds for major mobility and transport projects in the region.