UAE- RTA readies for GCC Traffic Week

DUBAI 7th March 2016 (WAM) -- Preparations are in full swing at the Roads and Transport Authority RTA for the onset of GCC Traffic Week to be held from the 13th - 17th March 2016. A wide array of events will be unleashed spanning shopping malls petrol stations government and private schools colleges and universities in Dubai.

Maitha bin Adai CEO of RTA Traffic and Roads Agency stressed the importance of Gulf Traffic Week in "diffusing traffic culture and heightening traffic awareness of individuals across the region especially the younger generations on whom all parties count for improving traffic safety levels in future. The Traffic Week is part of events endorsed in the strategic plan of Traffic Safety in the Agency. We have therefore started early preparation of a suitable programme of events targeting most community segments in the Emirate of Dubai. Through this event we are attempting to diversify the means of communication with the public through direct events awareness messages in cinema and RTA's e-Service screens as well as social media channels. We will also be having a stand at the Mall of the Emirates targeting families and all community members" she said.

"Events epitomise this year's logo: 'Your Decision Determines Your Fate' and most of them therefore focus on the risks associated with the use of the mobile phone during driving. It is the driver who decides on the use of the mobile phone and accordingly exposes himself or herself as well as others to risks or not. Writing a text message takes about 5 seconds of the driver's sight from road to telephone; which means distracting the driver's attention from the road over a distance equals to the length of a football playground when driving at a speed of 88 km/h according to the study commissioned by the National Safety Council in the USA" she explained.

"The main event to be held by the agency at the Mall of the Emirates includes an interactive stand where quizzes will be given to the public and Salama magazine will be promoted via smart gadgets. The smart app will also be explained and an awareness film will be displayed through interactive screens using 3D technology highlighting the risks of using the mobile phone during driving. Events also include probing the views of the public about some issues relating to traffic awareness and their satisfaction with the event. A Children's Corner will distribute Salama magazine and hold drawing quizzes and awareness events as well" she added.

The CEO of RTA Traffic and Roads Agency called for investing in modern technology for spreading traffic awareness. "Many awareness messages guidelines and video clips will be transmitted via social media channels of the RTA and its partners for the benefit of largest possible number of visitors and road users. The RTA also intends to hold events in the American University of Dubai and distribute leaflets dedicated to the GCC Traffic Week at Emarat petrol stations.

"Preparations have been made for a reception party of GCC delegations who will examine RTA's experience in Dubai and its contribution to reducing traffic fatalities and injuries" said bin Adai. She called on the public to contribute to the success of events held by the concerned parties cooperate with the traffic police and comply with the proper traffic attitudes towards realising RTA's vision of Safe and Smooth Transport for All.