Police intensify patrolling of deserts, mountain areas in Sharjah

Sharjah - The police have fined several campers who were caught driving without a licence.

Roving patrols have intensified their operations in Sharjah's desert and mountain areas frequented by campers and tourists, after a horrific accident caused due to reckless driving.
A top official of the Sharjah Police said that despite their constant reminders, some residents and visitors continue to violate safety rules and regulations. Young people still drive their vehicles and quad bikes in the desert recklessly, even performing dangerous stunts, he said.  During the crackdown that started this winter, the police have fined several campers who were caught driving without a licence, riding quad bikes on highways, failing to use safety equipment, and camping in unauthorised areas.
Following the accident in Al Fayah desert that resulted in serious injuries to a 33-year-old Yemeni, the police,  in coordination with municipalities, have launched a comprehensive plan to monitor the desert, said Ahmed bin Darwish, director of the central region police station.  A committee was also formed to ensure a safe winter for campers. Among the areas on top priority are Badair, Al Saifah, Al Batih, Al Dhaid and Mleiha.  A special rescue unit equipped with an advanced desert ambulance is on standby in case of emergencies. 
"We are ready to quickly respond to accidents. We have also prepared a fleet of advanced recovery vehicles to help campers whose cars get stuck in the sand and those who lose their way in the desert and the mountains," Bin Darwish added.
Patrols are mandated to immediately confiscate the vehicles of people caught performing stunts or those driving cars not designed for the desert, the officer said, adding that they will continue to run awareness campaigns. Bin Darwish urged residents to pay attention to the signs set up at sites dedicated to tourism and entertainment, and comply with the instructions posted.
The police also called on trekkers to call 901 and inform the authorities of their hiking plans so they may be advised of safety regulations. A satellite phone is recommended for them to be easily tracked in case of an emergency.
Common violations
>Reckless driving
>Driving cars not designed for the desert
>Riding quad bikes on highways
>Performing dangerous car, motor stunts
>Failing to use safety equipment
>Camping in unauthorised areas
afkarali@khaleejtimes.com
 

• Sharjah