These initiatives are part of commitments by the local firms to support the UAE community in times of crisis
Sharjah authorities have launched a crackdown on violators of boat regulations in the emirate, following the capsizing incident that killed an Indian expat off Khor Fakkan beach last Friday.
The management of the tourist boat company behind the fatal accident — which also injured four passengers — has now been charged with negligence and referred to the public prosecution, the Sharjah Police chief told Khaleej Times.
Maj-Gen Saif Al Zari Al Shamsi, Commander-in-Chief of the Sharjah Police, said that following the incident, an emergency response team was dispatched to the site.
The team launched an investigation that led to the arrest of the boat's management and all staff on duty. The probe revealed that overloading was the cause of the accident.
Maj-Gen Al Shamsi said the boat was carrying a total of 16 people — including the staff on duty — when the vessel could only accommodate a maximum of 10. The investigation showed that the company took in more people to make higher profits.
The deadly capsizing accident prompted the police to issue a warning to all other boat operators in the emirate, carrying out inspections to check their compliance with safety rules.
Police found that many other companies are not following regulations, with many caught exceeding their vessels' capacities.
Maj-Gen Al Shamsi urged the boat firms to straighten up their operations and make sure all policies are strictly followed. Exercise caution when venturing out into the sea and ensure all passengers are wearing life jackets, he added.
Sharjah authorities, including the municipality and the economic development department (SEDD), have ramped up inspections of boat operations — warning companies against taking advantage of the spike in demand at the expense of safety.
While these companies were confirmed to have valid licences, a special team will be monitoring their activities, according to the SEDD. An official of the municipality said inspections will also cover Jet Ski rental companies.
ALSO READ:
These initiatives are part of commitments by the local firms to support the UAE community in times of crisis
Though some employers were considerate enough to allow employees to work from home, some have asked staff to report to work now
It is a tale of love and dedication scripted in the heart of Abu Dhabi
Thousands of personnel deployed to clear accumulated water, clogged drains, and fallen trees
Areas such as Abu Shagara, Al Qasimiya, King Faisal Road, Al Mahatta, and Majaz have been particularly affected
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs reiterated its call on the United Nations and the UN Security Council to fulfill their responsibilities
This step aims bring relief to thousands of residents in Emaar’s communities who have been badly affected by unprecedented rains
Dressed in all black, the man was seen directing traffic for nearly six hours