40M gallons of rainwater drained off RAK roads
ras al khaimah — The Department of Public Works in Ras Al Khaimah, geared up to deal with the recent showers’ aftermath, has drained over 40 million gallons of rainwater from the roads and squares in the emirate.
Ahmed Al Hammadi, director-general of the department, told Khaleej Times that 122 staff employees have drained out 1.95 million gallons of rain water using 29 tankers, as part of 390 trips in the emirate from Sunday 9am to Monday 6am. “The total rainwater drained out using tankers and pumps hit 20.2 million gallons.”
Pools of water were pumped out from Al Dhait South, Khuzam, Kharan and Shaam areas, he added. “Up to 52 reports of ponds, landslides, and falling trees were handled over the same period.” A total of 173 staff employees drained out 1.53 million gallons of rain water on 29 tankers as part of 307 trips from Saturday 9am to Sunday 6am. “The total amount of rainwater drained out using tankers and pumps reached 19.7 million gallons.”
The large pools of water at Al Dhait South, Khuzam, Kharan, Al Daqdaqa, Suhaila, Ras Al Khaimah, Al Qusaidat, and Al Dhait North were pumped out, he explained. “Over 70 reports of ponds, landslides, and falling trees were handled over the same period.”
Meanwhile, Jebel Jais recorded the lowest temperature in the country — 5°C — according to the National Centre of Meteorology. “Heavy rains up to 35mm were recorded in Ras Al Khaimah.” The highest peak in the country, standing over 1,900 metres above sea level, saw up to 5,500 vehicles halting at the peak — 3,000 on Friday and 2,500 on Saturday.
Over 120 staff employees have drained out 1.95 million gallons of rain water using 29 tankers, as part of 390 trips in the emirate between Sunday 9am to Monday 6am.” Ahmed Al Hammadi, directorgeneral, department of public works, RAK
Heavy showers lashed all parts of Ras Al Khaimah over the last two days, with some parts covered with hail and snow on Saturday and Sunday. The heavy downpour turned many parts of the emirate into big ponds of rainwater, and landslides have been reported in several roads, mainly at Al Tawain area.
Mountains and valleys of the emirate affected by the showers had turned into flowing waterfalls and lakes.
The RAK Police have also deployed more traffic patrols to ensure traffic flow and recover the stuck and non-functioning vehicles, if any, according to Marwan Jakkah, head of media department, RAK Police.
“No serious traffic accident has been reported on the roads and highways of the emirate due to the ongoing showers.”
However, he urged all motorists need to be alert, focus and careful, and reduce speed on the road during the rain.
“All residents are advised to avoid mountainous areas and the strong currents of the valleys, while all motorists are requested to reduce speed, pay attention while driving, turn on the vehicle lights, and observe traffic rules for the safety of all road users.
Residents exposed to strong showers and winds are requested to be careful, and call 999 in case of emergency. ahmedshaaban@khaleejtimes.com