Dubai: Trainee drivers in Dubai are being taught how to read signs and adhere to road markings in areas covered by the Dubai Tram.
New road signs have been incorporated in the Safe Driving Manual used by driving institutes as part the Roads and Transport Authority’s (RTA) efforts to create awareness about tram movement ahead of its launch on November 11.
Ahmad Hashem Behroozian, CEO of RTA’s Licensing Agency, said: “To ensure smooth and safe movement of the tram, road users are required to observe and adhere to the signage and ground markings tailor-made for its safe operation.”
New drivers are being trained and educated about the signs informing about the movement of the trams as well on ways to behave when sharing road space with trams.
“We have started educating trainee drivers at various driving institutes and centres in Dubai on the basics of tram movement through updating the Safe Driving Manual, which is considered a key requisite for passing the theory test needed to obtain a driving licence. These updates contribute to enriching the knowledge of the trainees and fostering positive attitudes of traffic education, which ultimately contributes to raising the awareness of trainees and the adoption of safe driving attitudes,” Behroozian added.
Trams will have right of way across the 10.6km network from Al Sufouh to Jumeirah Beach Residence.
“The current Safe Driving Manual includes core educative data about how to properly deal with trams moving on the road, highlighted by giving priority for the approaching tram. All road users, pedestrians included, have to give way to an approaching tram, the only exception being emergency vehicles. Moreover, road-users have to refrain from any activity that may directly or indirectly hamper the tram’s movement,” Behroozian said.
“Even in the case of accidents, motorists have to ensure they are out of the tram’s path as trams can’t move away from their tracks. Pedestrians should also follow the signs and cross the road only at designated crossings.”
