Summary

As part of this applied research initiative, Sohar University, in collaboration with PDO, addressed the critical challenge of camel crossing incidents within Petroleum Development Oman (PDO) concession areas. These incidents pose significant risks to road safety, resulting in loss of human lives, damage to infrastructure, and harm to wildlife. With traditional preventive measures such as warning signs and fencing proving insufficient, this project aimed to introduce a more intelligent, data-driven approach tailored to Oman’s unique environmental conditions.

The primary objectives of the project were to address the root cause for camel crossing and to design and develop a real-time camel monitoring and alert system using Internet of Things (IoT) devices integrated with LoRa (Long Range) communication technology. The research focused on tracking camel movements, identifying high-risk crossing zones, and providing timely alerts to drivers and relevant authorities to prevent potential accidents.

The study generated important insights and practical outcomes:

• Risk Area Identification: Field surveys and historical data analysis enabled the identification of high-risk camel crossing locations within PDO concession areas.
• Technology-Driven Prevention: The proposed IoT and LoRa-based system demonstrated strong potential for real-time monitoring and early warning, offering a more effective alternative to conventional methods.
• Cost-Effective Solution: Compared to fencing and underpasses, the proposed approach provides a scalable and economically viable solution suitable for remote and expansive areas.
• Wildlife Protection: By reducing camel-vehicle collisions, the project supports animal welfare and preserves an important aspect of Oman’s cultural heritage.
• Data-Driven Planning: Collected movement data offers valuable insights for authorities and policymakers to improve road safety planning and wildlife management strategies.

This initiative contributes to enhancing national road safety and HSE, supports sustainable infrastructure development, and aligns with Oman’s commitment to innovation and smart technologies. By integrating academic research with practical implementation, the project lays the groundwork for a scalable and sustainable camel crossing prevention system across the Sultanate of Oman.

Research Team Members:

Principal Investigator:

· Dr. Marwan Alshare - Sohar University

Co-Principal Investigator:

· Dr. Khaled Abuhmaidan - Sohar University