Dubai: People with special needs are concerned over motorists’ misuse of dedicated parking spaces, leaving them with no alternative spots.
Major General Mohammad Saif Al Zafein, Director of Dubai Police’s Traffic Department, yesterday said there has been an increase in these offences this year.
He said: “There have been 200 more traffic violations, where motorists park in unauthorised spots, this year than in 2011, and we have also received numerous complaints from disabled motorists who are unable to park in residential areas, shopping centres or in commercial areas due to the negligence of other motorists.” said
Maj Gen Al Zafein revealed that 4,315 traffic fines were issued to motorists during the first six months of 2012 for parking in restricted areas and in disabled parking spaces.
He also noted that a total of 850 disabled parking permits have been registered with motorists in Dubai, out of which 512 permits were issued on a permanent basis.
Maj Gen Al Zafein pointed out that the Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) in Dubai has built more than 700,000 parking spaces across the emirate, including 500 that are dedicated for people with disabilities.
“Unauthorised motorists parked in a disabled parking space will be slapped with a Dh1,000 fine and their vehicle will be confiscated immediately. “Dubai Police are taking strict measures against such offenders and aims to reduce the number of violations by carrying out a year-long campaign to educate the public,” said Maj Gen Al Zafein.
He emphasised that the Dubai Government places importance on the rights of people with special needs and has inserted ramps in all government departments for easy access.
He added that such types of traffic offences are due to lack of respect for people with special needs and even though hefty fines are imposed, “studies show that motorists continue to act selfishly and have a complete disregard for other people”.
