New emergency barriers have been installed on Highway 1 to help emergency and rescue forces reach incidents faster and provide drivers with emergency escape routes when needed.

The initiative was launched following the devastating Jerusalem-area fires on Independence Day 2025, when many motorists became trapped on the highway, unable to turn back due to the permanent median barrier. In response, Netivei Israel, the Israel Police, and emergency agencies identified 49 strategic locations across the country where special emergency openings could be created. 20 of them are in the center of the country.

Two pilot barriers have now been installed on Highway 1. During emergencies such as wildfires, security incidents, major accidents, or road blockages, the barriers can be quickly opened to allow faster access for rescue teams and safer evacuation routes for drivers. Officials say the system, already used in several European countries, is expected to significantly improve emergency response times, with plans to expand it to dozens of additional locations nationwide.

Netivei Israel notes that this is another step to improve preparedness for emergency situations and increased safety on the roads. Later this year, the project is expected to expand to additional strategic locations across the country, with the aim of enabling a faster and more effective response by emergency forces, and save more lives!