Dh6m safety project for creek and coastal traffic

Dubai: Marine traffic on Dubai Creek and in coastal areas will be policed by the Roads and Transport Authority.

"It is important to take security and safety measures because of a massive increase in marine transport in the emirate," said Khalid Al Zahid, Director of Maritime Projects Department at the Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) Marine Agency.

He said the policing would be part of the Marine Safety Services Project starting in June at an initial cost of Dh6 million.

The project is important to control movement of all kinds of water transport, including speed boats, ferries, abras, cruise boats and water buses.

Once the project is launched, every boat moving in Dubai's waters will have to meet certain standards to ensure safety. The Marine Police will also issue fines to errant boats.

"The new service will also provide a multiple and diverse package of marine safety services such as towing, tugging, refuelling, repairing of emergent defects, battery checks and all aspects related to marine safety," said Al Zahid. He said the Marine Agency is one of the key entities offering sea-goers with all marine support services as well as educational and awareness programmes.

He said certain programmes are involved in implementing the project. The first one is tailored to qualify members to acquire the minimum standards of marine culture enabling them to explore and enjoy the sea.

The second is an academic programme customised to train members and groom them properly to treat emergency cases while at sea.

The third is an executive programme aimed at serving marine security and safety through providing all ingredients of marine support to subscribed members. Al Zahid said an annual subscription fee starting from Dh1,500 will be applied to members. The services will cover the coasts of Dubai up to 40 nautical miles.

Security of vessels

The Roads and Transport Authority (RTA)'s Marine Agency as part of its new Marine Safety and Security Service Project, will also offer a 24-hour support service to boat owners for an annual subscription of Dh1,500.

This will include refuelling of vessels in case of emergency, battery recharging and replacing, cleaning underwater blades of vessels, and repairing minor emergency faults, like jump start.

Marine Agency experts will also brief subscribers on security and safety conditions, in addition to issuing statements about conditions at sea via the website and assist with combating marine pollution.

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