COVID-19: Qatar issues restrictions on number of passengers in one car
Family cars are bunched together with taxis and limousines
Dubai: Three members of the same family can travel together in a private vehicle under the current social distancing regulations in Qatar, according to the Qatari Al Arab newspaper.
When it comes of occupancy limit, family cars are bunched together with taxis and limousines, which can carry a maximum of three people at the same time, said First Lieutenant Abdullah Dhaen al Kuwari of the General Traffic Directorate.
However, no more than two persons are allowed to travel at a time in self-driven personal vehicles. Since May 19, Qatar’s Cabinet has imposed enhanced travel restrictions to contain the spread of COVID-19 in the country. Ambulances and vehicles of the Ministry of Public Health, the armed forces, the police and other security authorities are excluded from these restrictions.
It should be noted buses and vans are allowed to carry passengers up to half their seating capacities as per a decision approved by the Cabinet earlier.
“We are keen to educate the public through the various awareness points set up by the General Traffic Department. We explain to road users the importance of wearing masks and gloves, and adherence to the precautionary measures currently applied to contain the spread of coronavirus. We advise all drivers and companions to abide by all procedures specified by the state, and not to leave the houses except for the most urgent necessity," Lieutenant Kuwari said.
Violators will be referred to the relevant authorities and legal measures will be taken against them, he added
“We advise road users to adhere to all decisions taken for the benefit of society. To ensure their safety and that of their families, I send a thank-you letter to the medical staff and all health sector workers. We tell them ‘we are here to support you’.”