In an effort to reduce escalating road accidents in Dubai, the Roads & Transport Authority (RTA) today (Wednesday, March 01, 2006), announced the launch of a Road Safety Awareness Program for 2006, at a press conference held at RTA’s premises in Al Rashidiya.
The program consists of a number of campaigns that will target the different road user groups with specific messages, in order to positively influence their behaviour on the road and reduce the number of fatalities and injuries. The program will be delivered to the community in partnership with the private sector and various community organisations.
RTA will kick-off its road safety program with the ‘Kids are Safer Behind’ campaign, which is being organised in partnership with Dubai Transport and MotherCare. As part of this campaign, around 100 taxis in Dubai will be fitted with child restraint safety seats to increase awareness among parents about safety of children in vehicles.
Speaking at the press conference, Dr. Aysha Al Busmait, Director of Marketing and Corporate Communications, RTA, said, “Recognising the gravity of the traffic conditions and accident rates in Dubai, RTA has decided to take up measures to bring down the number of road accidents, which very often lead to serious injuries and death. While the Government of Dubai has been investing heavily in road infrastructure to provide a world class road network, RTA has been stepping up its efforts to ensure a safe and smooth road transport system for all. Creating awareness among the general public on road safety is one of the ways we wish to achieve our objectives, and in this regard, RTA is proud to announce the launch of its Road Safety Awareness Program 2006.”
Engineer Hashim Al Hashimi, Director of Traffic Department, RTA, said, “Since its establishment in late 2005, the Roads and Transport Authority has recognised safety on roads as a major community issue. RTA has prepared plans to address the lack of awareness in the community on the risks drivers pose for themselves and other road users due to their negligence. These programs also aim to build the right attitude and approach to driving.”
Over the coming months, RTA will be launching a series of activities and programmes at various levels to promote road safety, such as lectures in schools and hospitals, community events and media campaigns.
‘Road Peace’, ‘Safe Kids’ and ‘Seat Belt your Chance for Survival’ are few of the campaigns that RTA will organise in the near future, in partnership with companies from the private sector and community organisations.
“We urge all drivers to abide by the traffic laws and regulations, avoid exceeding the speed limits, use seat belts and become responsible drivers to ensure the safety of all road users,” concluded Al Hashimi.
