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Residents termed opening of 18 drive-through DPI laser testing stations at the Abu Dhabi border as icing on the cake after the rollout of the massive vaccination drive.
The stations are established on Al Faya Road (E75), i.e. the stretch between Sheikh Zayed Road (E11) and Sheikh Mohammed Bin Zayed Road (E311).
With the increase of testing centres, light vehicle driver Hussain T. Muhammed is hoping to save time. “I used to commute a lot between Abu Dhabi and Dubai but the trips dipped in the past few months. However, with the plans afoot for the resumption of economic activities, business will restart soon and I will then need to travel regularly. So, 18 centres are a boon while trying to enter the emirate. And the dedicated lane of Al Faya Road is a good move to avoid traffic congestion at the border.”
Project coordinator Mahendrababu A is relieved after finding out about the new facilities. “I travel once a week to Dubai. I used to mostly take the rapid test at the border. I was wondering why the Ghantoot testing centre was shut from Thursday. It was a strange and unusual step from the Abu Dhabi Government. But in just two days, I am proven wrong. Now, we have so many multiple centres to test. And these are drive-throughs on a separate lane. So, we will not be losing out on time like before.”
Ibrahim Elsayed, an admin officer at a private company, pointed out the development coincides with the reopening of borders for the international tourists, and is a significant move. “Now not only residents but tourists can freely move between Abu Dhabi and Dubai. I believe the new testing centres complement the national vaccination drive. In the coming weeks, all these measures will have a positive impact on the economy. You can find such a level of planning only in the UAE.”
Prabakaran M, HSE officer, said the centre and vaccination drive are New Year gifts.
“I laud the government for such timely steps, which boosts confidence of the masses ahead of the New Year. Now you will see more people travelling to Dubai and vice versa without much tension. If there is a dip in Covid-19 cases because of these measures, we will surely hear more announcements on easing of restrictions and eventually the full reopening. All of us need to act responsibly till the fight is won.”
ashwani@khaleejtimes.com
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