International transport expert, Professor Hernan de Solminihac from Chile will present a talk titled, ‘The importance of the road infrastructure development in the socio-economic growth of Chile’ on Tuesday, 5 July 2016 at the 35th annual Southern African Transport Conference (SATC).
Partnerships for economic growth, is the theme of this year’s annual SATC that will take place from 4 to7 July at the CSIR International Convention Centre in Pretoria.
What can the industry learn from the Chile experience in improving the lives of all its citizens? This will be unpacked by Professor de Solminihac during his presentation and is a fitting theme considering the socio-economic issues in Southern Africa.
The objective of this address is to describe Chile’s most relevant experiences and examples in its road system development and how this has impacted on the socio and economic development of the country.
Delegates will hear about the main problems encountered in Chile. At the same time they will have first-hand information on what solutions were implemented in developing the road infrastructure in offsetting these challenges.
Of particular interest will be Professor de Solminihac’s ideas on how a developing country can work to improve its road infrastructure which in turn improves the quality of life for its population.
As these designs are being implemented, all road users in Chile are benefitting. Reduced travel time, fewer accidents and improved vehicle operating costs are just some of the benefits. Business sectors such as road haulage, mining, agriculture and tourism are also seeing positive spin-offs due to the improved road infrastructure.
Delegates will also hear how revitalising a country’s road infrastructure is a great incentive to revitalise a country’s economy. New investments in roads, says Professor de Solminihac, will improve overall productivity.
Road transport connects nations and unites countries. Without proper solutions to move people and freight, economies will remain stagnant. The main aim of SATC is to respond positively to the challenges and needs of transport users.
South Africa’s Minister of Transport, Hon Elizabeth Dipuo Peters, is the event patron and will deliver the opening address on Monday, 4 July.
Delegates for the Southern African Transport Conference can register at www.satc.org.za and all delegates are currently eligible for the ‘Early Bird Special’. The conference also includes an exhibition. Anyone interested in exhibiting at the event can find out more about the exhibition opportunities at www.satc.org.za
