136 mobikes impounded in RAK

136 mobikes impounded in RAK Ahmed Shaaban (ahmedshaaban@khaleejtimes.com) / 24 July 2013 The RAK Police, as part of an intensive campaign to develop traffic awareness during the holy month of Ramadan, impounded 136 motorcycles over the last ten days for flouting road safety rules. Col Ali Saeed Alalaikam, Director of Traffic and Patrols Department, RAK Police, said the drive has helped decrease congestion, apart from the deaths and other casualties on the road. “The RAK Police are keen to apply the strategy, and initiatives of the Ministry of Interior to improve road safety, reduce congestion, accidents, and deaths.” “The move is part of a nationwide initiative under the theme ‘Accident Free Summer’ meant to enhance road users’ safety.” Adding, he said the bikes impounded are not licenced by the concerned licensure bodies. “Some were making noise, annoying residents and road users, and endangering their safety.” Col Alalaikam said that field inspectors are deployed on all internal roads, highways and distant areas to stop errant and callous motorists. “These inspections are enforced round the clock, and all the year round.” Meanwhile, the RAK Traffic Police are cooperating with the Economic Development department, and all competent bodies in the emirate by intensifying inspection campaigns at shops selling those bikes, and financial penalties will be imposed on them by the department. “All parents are urged to monitor their children and alert them about the risks of riding unlicensed bikes which are mostly unsafe and improperly equipped.” The motorcycles seized, include small motorcycles driven by children, quad bikes and unregistered motorcycles. “Some of these children are below 10 years of age. It is risky for such young children to ride on the roads.” Bikes, irrespective of their engine capacity, must be registered, and the driver must possess a valid motor cycle driving licence. “Any violations must be dealt with punishment as per law,” he noted.   Taylor Scott International