Dunes flattened to check reckless off-roaders
Authorities erect concrete barriers to prevent unsafe driving in the desert
Authorities in Sharjah are erecting concrete barriers and flattening sand dunes in the desert areas of the emirate to combat reckless off-road driving and protect lives of motorists.
Barriers are going up in the desert to thwart irresponsible drivers from entering into and speeding in areas that have long been popular sites for offroad enthusiasts.
The preventive measures are based on the directives of His Highness Dr Shaikh Sultan Bin Mohammad Al Qasimi, Supreme Council Member and Ruler of Sharjah, following a number of deadly accidents.
Beginning today, police will also boost patrols in remote areas of the emirate to crack down on reckless driving, police said. Police will take preventive measures, especially around tourist spots in the emirate.
“Starting tomorrow [Thursday] ■ Sharjah Police will impound modified vehicles and motorbikes and will restrict any kind of misconduct by young motorists, that would pose a threat to their lives and safety, as well as those of others. The department will also strictly monitor and eliminate any indecent behaviour, or that which may degrade the traditions and culture of the emirate,” said Brigadier Abdullah Mubarak Bin Amer, Deputy Commander-in-Chief of Sharjah Police.
Authorities also plan to protect Al Faya and Al Badayer in the Central Region of Sharjah where off-road motorbikes, vehicles and four-wheel drives often wreak havoc.
Unlicensed drivers will be especially targeted.
Brig. Bin Amer held a meeting yesterday with the directors of the main police departments to prepare the rollout of the new measures.
Ban on quad bikes
Police personnel will also intensify their presence and patrols will be deployed in the area around the clock, police said. Checkpoints will also be established at all entry and exit points and on the main roads leading to land areas, especially those that have witnessed reckless driving in the past.
During the meeting, Brig. Bin Amer also stressed the ban on the use of quad bikes in Al Faya, Al Badayer, Second of December Road, Al Fao area and the Al Rafda neighbourhood and its adjacent areas.
“These measures have been taken as a result of a number of accidents that have taken place in the recent period and previous year, as a result of which many young people had sustained serious injuries that could have led to their deaths. Severe penalties and fines will be imposed on offenders. Vehicles and motorcycles misused to violate the law will be impounded permanently,” he said.
“Sharjah Police called on land users, members of the public and families, to enjoy their time away from dangers and negative behaviours, and to follow instructions and guidelines for maintaining their safety and safety of others and to protect themselves and their children.
“Police has urged community members to report any practises or behaviours that can lead to disturb their comfort or threaten their security and safety,” Brig. Bin Amer added.