The market, which is expected to post over Dh100 billion in sales through more than 30,000 transactions in first quarter, will sustain steady increase in transactions and prices throughout the year
Last year, 601 motorists were fined for the same violation over the same period, said Sheikh Saqr bin Sultan Al Qasimi, director of the franchise and transport licence.
"RTA Sharjah spares no effort to ensure public safety and curb illegal taxi services. It has launched three inspection campaigns in January, February and March this year," he added. These covered most of the areas of Sharjah city and central region of the emirate, which were closely monitored by 20 inspectors who managed to nab 758 illegal taxi drivers, he pointed out.
More inspectors will be deployed at hot spots like labour camps, markets, and industrial areas, he stated.
"A hefty fine of Dh5,000 will be slapped on erring driver first time," he warned. "The fine shall be doubled to Dh10,000 in case of repetition, while the violation reported in the driver's absentia shall draw a fine of Dh10,000."
Campaigns against cabbies
RTA Sharjah ran four inspection campaigns against licensed cabbies all over Sharjah city in cooperation with the cab franchise companies, he pointed out.
"Up to 2,291 fines have been issued against erring drivers in the first quarter of the year," he said. "Those are compared to 1,964 nabbed over the same period last year; representing a 16.6 per cent rise in the number of the violations recorded."
The 21 staff quality controllers are well trained to keep an eye on every nook and corner, and curb all violations, he underlined.
"The inspectors also make sure taxi service is available at critical areas, including the Sharjah International Airport, hospitals, shopping centres, malls, and event venues downtown."
Special attention is also given to densely populated areas, such as Al Rolla, Al Khalidia, Al Nahda, bus stops, National Square, industrial areas, hospitals and shopping centres, he said.
"A smart service has been launched to immediately alert about a violation to the erring driver via SMS on his registered phone number."
RTA Sharjah is keen to respond to customers' feedbacks and complaints. RTA Sharjah Call Centre is reachable 24/7 at (600525252) for feedbacks, enquiries, remarks and complaints.
ahmedshaaban@khaleejtimes.com
The market, which is expected to post over Dh100 billion in sales through more than 30,000 transactions in first quarter, will sustain steady increase in transactions and prices throughout the year
She was shopping in Hong Kong, where she was on vacation with her family, when someone spotted her and asked if she'd like to become a model.
After the October 7 attacks, Israel imposed a complete siege on Gaza, blocking food, water and medicine, before eventually allowing some deliveries
The event highlighted Hilton's innovative ‘Green Ramadan’ initiative and its commitment to sustainable hospitality in Hilton
On every 19th of Ramadan, the country celebrates Sheikh Zayed Humanitarian Day to commemorate the humanitarian efforts of the founding father
Customers can earn miles with every purchase made with any linked payment card across all Union Coop stores and online
People will be trained for a couple of months before they are able to drive and fly it
Conditions are likely to get humid by night time